march 2016 • issue 15sunday 10th april 2016 –six mile valley masonic charity committee:st...

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In this issue:• District Grand RAC Convocations• Companions Remembered• Chapter Reports from around the District• News and Profiles• Foundation of Provincial Grand Chapterand more...

THE

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MARCH 2016 • ISSUE 15

Journal of the

£2.00

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Once again it is my great pleasure to compilethis 2016 issue of our Banner magazine, aswe proudly say, the only District magazine in

our Irish Constitution. We continue trying to obtainthe contributions from as many of our Chapters aspossible, particularly those who have not had somehighlight in recent years. This issue confirms with yoursupport, this objective continues to be met.

I could not have been more satisfied by the supportI have received by the District Grand King and Officersin District Grand Chapter and particularly fromChapters in the District. I must also mention andsincerely thank, R.E. Comp Jim Lynch, and M.E. CompJohn Coulter who have regularly provided photographsand details of Installations, events etc. If you are havinga Chapter event, take a few photographs, write a fewlines, send it to me by email or post at the DGRACOffice or home and I will do the rest. Could Iparticularly thank all those who have sent articles andphotographs for this issue. Many thanks also to thosewho buy the magazine, I hope you enjoy it – thecharities benefit from your support. (Please see

Editor’s Note

2016 Calendar

Where Companions Meet

KEYGrand Chapter Stated Convocations District Grand Chapter Stated Convocations

Committees of Inspection: Belfast East Antrim North Antrim Board of General Purposes

EastAntrimArea

Ballinderry, Broomhedge, Crumlin, Lisburn

Carrickfergus 253, 1012,Doagh, Whiteabbey

Arthur Square, Crumlin Road, Ligoniel

Antrim, Ballycastle, Ballymena, Ballymoney,Broughshane, Bushmills, Clough,Cullybackey, Portglenone, Portrush,Randalstown, Templepatrick, Vowferry

Ballycarry, Carrickfergus 313, Glenarm,Islandmagee, Larne, Straid

NorthAntrimArea

SouthAntrimArea

South EastAntrim Area

Belfast CityArea

JANUARYMon 18th 2.00pm Freemasons’ Hall, Arthur Sq., Belfast Belfast Area Committee of InspectionMon 18th 2.30pm Freemasons’ Hall, Arthur Sq., Belfast Board of General PurposesSat 23rd 2.15pm Provincial Masonic Hall, Belfast District Grand Chapter Stated ConvocationFEBRUARYWed 3rd 2.00pm Freemasons’ Hall, Dublin Grand Chapter Stated ConvocationWed 3rd 5.00pm Larne Masonic Centre East Antrim Committee of InspectionFriday 19th 5.00pm Ballymena Masonic Centre North Antrim Committee of InspectionAPRILWed 6th 5.00pm Larne Masonic Centre East Antrim Committee of InspectionMon 18th 2.00pm Freemasons’ Hall, Arthur Sq., Belfast Belfast Area Committee of InspectionMon 18th 2.30pm Freemasons’ Hall, Arthur Sq., Belfast Board of General PurposesMon 25th 7.30pm Provincial Masonic Hall, Belfast District Grand Chapter Stated ConvocationMAYWed 4th 2.00pm Freemasons’ Hall, Dublin Grand Chapter Stated ConvocationMon 16th 2.00pm Freemasons’ Hall, Arthur Sq., Belfast Belfast Area Committee of InspectionMon 16th 2.30pm Freemasons’ Hall, Arthur Sq., Belfast Board of General PurposesFri 21st 5.00pm Ballymena Masonic Centre North Antrim Committee of Inspection27th-29th Belfast Visit of the P.G.C. of Argyll & The IslesSat 28th 2.15pm Provincial Masonic Hall, Belfast District Grand Chapter Stated ConvocationAUGUSTWed 3rd 5.00pm Larne Masonic Centre East Antrim Committee of InspectionFri 5th 5.00pm Ballymena Masonic Centre North Antrim Committee of InspectionSEPTEMBERMon 12th 2.00pm Freemasons’ Hall, Arthur Sq., Belfast Belfast Area Committee of InspectionWed 21st 2.00pm Freemasons’ Hall Dublin Grand Chapter Stated ConvocationOCTOBERMon 17th 2.00pm Freemasons’ Hall, Arthur Sq., Belfast Board of General PurposesMon 24th 7.30pm High St. Presbyterian Church, Antrim District Grand Chapter Stated ConvocationNOVEMBERWed 2nd 2.00pm Freemasons’ Hall Dublin Grand Chapter Stated ConvocationWed 2nd 5.00pm Larne Masonic Centre East Antrim Committee of InspectionMon 14th 2.00pm Freemasons’ Hall, Arthur Sq., Belfast Belfast Area Committee of InspectionFri 18th 5.00pm Ballymena Masonic Centre North Antrim Committee of Inspection

by V. E. Comp. Billy Brown.

separate article on the Banner Magazine provided bythe original Editor M.E.C. G. Wendel McGrath).

As usual, Peter in DCG couldn’t be more helpfuland the design and attractiveness of the magazine isdown to his genius. Please support the advertiserswhen you can – their generosity is essential.

Time flies when you areenjoying yourself. Is it a yearsince I was privileged to be

asked, as District Grand King, to writea foreword for “The Banner.”

“The Banner” continues to informChapters and Companions of what has been happening atDistrict Chapter and also, equally importantly, to otherchapters and companions in the District. Chapters continueto provide interesting articles, accompanied by photographs,on events in your chapter or individual companions. ThisEdition has contributions from twenty eight Chapters. Keepit up this is your opportunity to be in the big picture.

I want to urge you all to try to recruit a new memberto your chapter as we strengthen membership of RoyalArch Masonry. We will shortly have a new recruitmentleaflet available to assist you.

I want to take this opportunity to thank all thosecompanions who have welcomed me on my visits toinstallation convocations throughout the District.

May I offer our thanks to Very Ecellent Companion BillyBrown for all his work, time and effort to make “TheBanner” successful.

Forewordby M.E. Comp. Jon McA Pollock,M. E. District Grand King.

Sunday 10th April 2016 – Six Mile ValleyMasonic Charity Committee: St John’s COIDoagh Rd, Ballyclare 3PM FOR 3.30PM

Sunday 17th April,2016 – Lisburn andDMCC: 3:30 pm, St Matthews Parish Church,Broomhedge.

Sunday 8th May 2016 – Seven Towers andMassereene MCC: 3.30pm St Patrick’s COI,Broughshane, hosted by Stalwart Lodge No. 96.

Sunday 5th June, 2016 – Carey andDunluce MCC: 3:30 pm, Ramoan PresbyterianChurch, Moyarget Road, Ballycastle.

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DISTRICT GRANDCHAPTER

ROSEMARY STREET, BELFASTMonday 27th April 2015

DISTRICT GRAND ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

M.E. and S. MICHAEL J. WARD Grand KingM.E. S. GORDON LEATHEM B.E.M. Deputy Grand KingM.E. The Rev’d. Canon T. HENRY TRIMBLE Assistant Grand King

M.E. Robert Wilkins Grand High PriestM.E. James H McClurg Grand Chief ScribeR.E. John S. Haynes Grand TreasurerR.E. D. Barry Lyons Grand RegistrarR.E. James McFarland Grand Director of CeremoniesR.E. The Rev’d. Charles McCurdy Grand ChaplainR.E. The Rev’d. Edwin Hunter Grand ChaplainR.E. Robert J. Barr Grand Captain of the HostV.E. W. Ivan Connor Grand Supt. of the TabernacleV.E. Hubert Crawford Mitchell Grand Royal Arch CaptainV.E. Ivan A. Meldrum Grand Captain of the Scarlet VeilV.E. George S. Robinson Grand Captain of the Purple VeilV.E. William T. Brown Grand Captain of the Blue VeilV.E. George M. Graham Asst. Grand Director of CeremoniesV.E. Guy L. St. Leger Grand StewardV.E. Keith J. Bates Grand Steward

Grand Sword BearerV.E. John N. Rowden Grand OrganistV.E. J. Stephen Thompson Deputy Grand OrganistV.E. Thomas Wilson Grand Chapter Standard BearerV.E. Hugh St. Leger Grand King's Standard BearerV.E. Selwyn Davies Grand JanitorV.E. Samuel Scott Assistant Grand StewardV.E. Norman E. R. Kelly Grand Registrar for InstructionV.E. Michael M. Costello Asst. Grand Registrar for Instruction

OFFICERS OF SUPREME GRANDROYAL ARCH CHAPTER OF IRELAND

Michael and the confectioner.

Ronnie Steele and John.

The three tenors.

Wendel and Cyril.

The Convocation of the ME District GrandChapter of Antrim on Monday evening 27thApril 2015 at Rosemary Street, Belfast.

Amongst those attending in addition to our ownsenior officers were the M.E. Deputy Grand King,Most Ecellent Companion S Gordon Leathem BEM,the M E District Grand King of Down, M. E. Comp.Kenneth Vance, and the District Deputy Grand King,R E Comp. Neil Coey.

The M E District Grand King of Armagh, M E CompJack Magowan, the R E District Deputy Grand King, RE Comp. Tom Millsopp, the R E District Assistant GrandKing, R E Comp. Walter Wilson, and the R E DistrictGrand Registrar, V E Comp. Fred Cooper.

The passing of R. E. Comp. Samuel Crymble, R A C175, District Grand High Priest 1989/1990 and V. E.Comp. Crawford Adair, R A C 260, District GrandInspector, 1997 was remembered.

The Convocation of the ME District GrandChapter of Antrim was held on Mondayevening 1st June 2015 at Rosemary Street,

Belfast. Amongst those attending in addition to ourown senior officers were the R E Comp. James Copes,R E District Assistant Grand King of Down

The M E District Grand King of Armagh, M E CompJack Magowan, the R E District Deputy Grand King, RE Comp. Tom Millsopp, the R E District Assistant GrandKing, R E Comp. Walter Wilson, and the V E DistrictGrand Registrar, R E Comp. Fred Cooper.

The passing of M E Comp Bill Norquay, M E CompA H Treadwell, Past District Grand King of Armagh


ROSEMARY STREET, BELFASTMonday 1st June 2015

Alan is happily married with ason, two daughters and sevengrandchildren. He has been an

Elder in Ballyclare Presbyterian Churchsince 1991. He taught in the SundaySchool for 22 years, holding the Officeof Sunday School Superintendent forthe latter 12 years of that tenure. Heis also the Church representative tothe Orphan and Children’s Society ofthe Presbyterian Church in Ireland.

Alan worked as a Design andDevelopment Engineer beforecommencing a career lecturing inElectronic Engineering at BelfastCollege of Technology. Hesubsequently gained a First ClassHonours degree in EducationManagement, followed by a Master ofArts degree with distinction. He was appointed SeniorLecturer in 1986. He was the Northern Irelandrepresentative to the Department of Trade andIndustry initiative for Industrial and Further Educationtraining, and was the author of an associated book‘Effective Diagnostics in Microelectronics Manufacture’.After the amalgamation of the Further Education

and the passing also of Susan Cameron, wife of M. E.Comp Sandy Cameron, Argyll & the Isles were recorded.

On a happier note V.E. Comp Alan D. McLorie wasinvested as V.E. District Assistant Grand Registrar.


ROSEMARY STREET, BELFASTMonday 26th October 2015

The Convocation of the ME District GrandChapter of Antrim was held on Monday evening26th October 2015 at Rosemary Street, Belfast.

Our Senior Officers attended and thankfully on thisoccasion there were no obituaries to report.

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Colleges he was appointed Head of theSchool of Electrical and ElectronicEngineering of the Belfast College ofFurther and Higher Education .

Alan is a Past Master of LodgesCogry Union 148 and Festival of Zion597 and an Honorary Member ofHarmony 645. He was appointedProvincial Grand Inner Guard in 2009.He is a Past King of Royal ArchChapters Doagh Union 317 andRechab 667 and has been Registrar ofRAC 317 since 2002. He wasappointed a District Grand Inspector in2010. He is a Past Chief of StraidCouncil 44 and has been its Directorof Ceremonies from 2002. He is a PastPreceptor of Carnmoney Preceptoryand has conferred degrees across all of

the aforementioned Masonic disciplines. He has alsobeen Venerable Secretary of Heredom Chapter ofPrince Masons XV since 2012.

We etend best wishes to Alan in his new role asDistrict Assistant Grand Registrar, within which hehas pledged to assist and support District GrandChapter.

NEW DISTRICT ASSISTANT GRAND REGISTRAR ALAN D. McLORIE


DISTRICT GRAND ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERCompanionsRemembered

The Buffet Lunch and Convocation of the MEDistrict Grand Chapter of Antrim was held onSaturday 23rd January 2016 the former at Arthur

Square and the latter at Rosemary Street, Belfast. Amongstthose attending in addition to our own senior officerswere M.E. Comp. Gordon S. Leathem BEM, M E DeputyGrand King, M E Comp. Kenneth Vance, M E DistrictGrand King of the M E District Grand Royal Arch Chaperof Down accompanied by R E Comp. Neil Coey, R EDistrict Deputy Grand King.and the District GrandRegistrar of Down, R. E. Comp. Roy Graham. M E Comp.Jack Magowan, M E District Grand King of the M E DistrictGrand Royal Arch Chapter of Armagh accompanied by RE Comp. Tom Millsopp, R E District Deputy Grand Kingand R E Comp. Walter Wilson, District Assistant GrandKing. R. E. Comp. Ray Hetherington, R. E. District AssistantGrand King of the M. E. District Grand Royal Arch Chapterof Londonderry, Donegal, Tyrone and Fermanagh.


ROSEMARY STREET, BELFASTSaturday 23rd January 2016

Bereavements: V E Comp William Gordon, P K ofRAC 702, D G C Standard Bearer, 2013/2014 Passedaway on 15th December 2015.

District Grand King’s Appointments: E. Comp. JohnL Edens, P K of RAC 177 as D G Steward. E. Comp.Joe McCullough, P K of RAC 335 as D G Sreward. E.Comp. F J B Murphy, P K of RAC 17 as D G King'sStandard Bearer. E. Comp. John Johnston, P K of RAC704 as D G King's Sword Bearer.

Presentation of Certificates of Past Rank: V. E.Comp. John Gray, D G Steward. V. E. Comp. HarryGrainger, D G Steward. V. E. Comp. Ronald S Callaghan,D G King's Standard Bearer. V. E. Comp. Edwin Moffett,D G King;s Sword Bearer. V. E. Comp Alan D McLorie,D G Inspector.

M.E. COMP. ALAN HARVEYTREADWELL, PAST ME DGK

OF ARMAGHAlan passed away on 23rd May

2015 peacefully at Blackrock Clinic.He had been ill for some time. Alanwas the husband of June, andbrother to Frances, Dorothea,Robert, Charlie and Georgina, Hewas a very supportive guest atDistrict Grand Chapter of Antrimwhere he seldom missed. Hisfuneral was held on 25th May 2015at Castlebellingham Church ofIreland with interment afterwardsin the adjoining churchyard. ToJean, Frances, Dorothea, Robert,Charlie and Georgina and all theTreadwell family circle, we etendour sincere condolences.

M.E. COMP.WILLIAM G NORQUAYIt was with great shock and

concern that the members of theDistrict Grand Chapter on a visit tothe Provincial Grand Chapter ofArgyll and the Isles were presentwhen Bill Norquay took ill at thefestive board. Bill was removed toHospital but sadly passed awaysome days later. Bill was a PastProvincial Grand Superintendent of

Argyll and the Isles and an officer ofthe Supreme Grand Royal ArchChapter of Scotland. Bill was anImmediate Past Master of LodgeCentury 1492 SC and Past Chaplainand Master of Lodge Dunoon Argyll335 SC. He was a Past Grand SeniorWarden in the Provincial GrandLodge of Argyll and the Isles. He wasalso involved in many other aspectsof Scottish Masonry. Bill's funeralwas held at St John's ChurchDunoon on Friday 8th of May at 12noon then Greenock Crematoriumat 2.00p.m. thereafter the TontineHotel Greenock. To Bill’s wifeMurdina and their daughter Caroland all the family circle, we etendour sincere condolences.

M.E. COMP. CHARLES KNIPE 33˚

Charles R Knipe, died suddenly,and unepectedly on February 13th,2016. Charles Reginald (Charlie), lateof Armagh, was the friend of ElisabethShaw, 5 Bushvale, Dungannon. HisFuneral Service was held in St. Anne'sChurch, Dungannon, on Wednesday17/2/16 followed by a private familyinterment. Our Immediate PastSupreme Grand King Charles Knipewas one of the most seniorFreemasons in Ireland. Charles was amember of Armagh RAC No 409, aPast District Grand King of Armagh,

V.E. COMP. REV. HUGHJAMES (JIM) PARKER MA,

PAST VE DISTRICTGRAND CHAPLAIN

Jim passed away on 22nd October,2015, peacefully, after a long illness, inScrabo Isles Nursing Home. He was thehusband of the late Muriel, and fatherof Peter and Timothy. Jim was both aChurch of Ireland Minister ordained in1963 and a School Headmaster. Jim wasinvested a Chaplain in District Chapterof Antrim on Saturday 27 January 2001.He was previously a Past King inLiscoole RAC 763. His funeral servicewas held on Tuesday 27th October at11.30 a.m. in Roselawn Crematorium.To Peter and Timothy daughter-in-lawDina, Tim's fiancee Kimberley,granddaughters Katherine and Laura,their husbands David and Kyle, weetend our sincere condolences.

V.E. COMP. WILLIAM (BILLY)GORDON, PAST DISTRICT

GRAND CHAPTERSTANDARD BEARER

Billy passed away on 15thDecember, 2015, peacefully athospital. He was the husband ofPat, father to Janette and Bill,father-in-law to Albert and Karen,grandfather and great-grandfather.His funeral service was held onFriday 18th December, 2015 inDundonald Methodist Church,Islay Gardens, Dundonald at 9.00a.m., followed by committal atRoselawn Cemetery. Billy wasinvested District Grand ChapterStandard Bearer on 25th January2014. He was a Past EK of KilleenTemperance Chapter 705 and aPast Master of Rosemount LodgeNo 702. To Pat, Janette, Bill, Albertand Karen and all the Gordonfamily circle we etend our sincerecondolences.

A Past Ecellent Chief of ArmaghCouncil No 24, Past EminentPreceptor in Tandragee Preceptoryand a KCT in Templar Masonry, PastMWS of Lurgan Chapter, andDirector of Ceremonies in SupremeGrand Council of the 33° Degree.


C H A P T E R R E P O R T SC H A P T E R R E P O R T S

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

28 • Antrim

Antrim Royal Arch Chapter No 28 installationtook place on Friday 5th December 2015 atFreemasons Hall, Antrim. The Principal Guest

was R.E. Comp. Tom McCurley the RE DDGK ofAntrim. The Installation was carried out by V.E. CompRoy Lamont, the Director of Ceremonies was V.E.Comp. Maurice Henderson and the following officerswere installed:-

Ecellent King: Companion D CrooksHigh Priest: E. Comp Sam WilsonChief Scribe: Comp. J Lowry.After the installation the Chapter and guests

retired to the Dining Room where the usual toastswere proposed and responded to. An ecellent mealwas served and a super evening concluded with theNational Anthem.

The VWM David Crooks and Officers of the MMM Lodge.

The DDGK, EK and Council.

The DDGK, EK and Council and Installing Officer.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

51 • Temple

Temple RAC No. 51 installation convocationwas held on 23rd February 2016 in the ArthurSquare Masonic Hall. There was also the

ealtation of three new members in conjunction withChapter No 10. The new members were GordonSmith, Henry Sinclair and Mike Humphries ealted byVEC’s Sean Cullen and David Openshaw.

There were a large gathering of ChapterCompanions and their guests, including manyprominent Companions from Antrim and Down

E. Comp. Jim Hall was Installed as the EK. The HPinstalled was Comp. Nigel Milligan. Comp Paul McCannwas installed as CS.

The Installing Officer was E. Comp. Ronnie Irwin.The ME District Grand King J McA Pollock was in

attendance as were VEC’s Fank Craig and Sean Cullenfrom the Province of Down.

After the Convocation the Companions retired tothe function room for the beautiful Festive Boardsupplied by Flo and her staff.

The usual Toasts were honoured and manyhumorous speeches given.

The new members with the ME DGK and principle Officers.

The DGK with the EK and Installing Officers.

The DGK with the EK, Council, Officers, Members and guests.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

54 • Hertford

The installation convocation of Hertford Royal ArchChapter No.54 was held in the Crumlin RoadMasonic Hall, Belfast on Monday 15th. February,

2016 at 6-30 pm in the presence of the Most E. DistrictGrand King, Most E. Comp. J McA. Pollock.

With a trio of Wilsons on the dias, the Most E.District Grand King said the same three faces were stillthere since his last visit 2 years ago, only now they havebeen reshuffled around.

The Installation of the E. King and Council tookplace as follows:

The outgoing E. King, E. Comp. Jamie Wilson reshuffledagain to Chief Scribe, the outgoing Chief Scribe R. E.Comp. James B. Wilson reshuffled to High Priest and theoutgoing High Priest Comp. Craig Wilson installed as E.King, thus maintaining the father and two sons “the Wilsonteam”. Craig was installed by Most E. Comp. NormanFairley in a dignified and memorable way, whichcommanded the full attention of all the Companions whowere present for this part of the ceremony.

After the close of the Chapter all the Companionsretired to the dining room with the E. King and the M. E.District Grand King, where food, companionship and“craic” were shared by all present until the net merrymeeting was toasted at 11-00 pm. And all departedsatisfied.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

56 • Oldstone

The installation of Oldstone RAC 56 was held inAntrim on Thursday evening 3rd Dec 2015. TheInstalling Officer was M. E. Comp. James H.

McClurg. The E. King installed was Comp. JamesMcWilliams; H.P. Comp. Derek McKnight; C.S. Comp.Mervyn Turner.

There was an ecellent turnout of ChapterCompanions and Guests. District was represented byR. E. Comp. W. James Lynch DAGK.

After the Installation Companions retired to thefunction room for the festive board.

The newly installed E. King and Council of RAC 56 togetherwith Chapter Officers and Distinguished Guests.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

57 • Dalriada

Dalriada RAC No. 57 held their InstallationConvocation on Wednesday evening 17thFebruary 2016 in the Ballymoney Masonic

Centre.Around Seventy Companions packed into the

Chapter room to witness an evening of ecellent ritualand the Installation of Comp. James R. B. Holmes asthe new Ecellent King. H. P. James Beattie and C.S.Derek Parkhill.

They were epertly installed by E. Comp. AlistairThompson. E. Comp. Holmes then Installed hisOfficers in a faultless and epert manner.

All the Officers being presented by the everefficient D.O. C. M. E. Comp. Roy Fynes P.D.G.C.S.

The whole event had been planned with militaryprecision by the Registrar V. E. Comp. RaymondRobinson.

District Senior Officers in attendance were M. E.Comp. J McA Pollock DGK and R. E. Comp. W. JamesLynch DAGK.

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Following the Installation the Companions retiredto the function suite where an ecellent festive boardwas provided by Iris Edgar of Iris’s Farmhouse CuisineCatering.

The usual Toasts were honoured and many speechesgiven and the evening concluded with the singing of theNational Anthem.

The newly installed E. K. and Council of Dalriada RAC No. 57.L to R: the DGK; E. Comp. James Beattie, (Proxy for Comp. ColinKirkpatrick); The E.K. E. Comp. James R. B. Holmes; C. S. Comp.Derek A. Parkhill; DAGK.

OBITUARYE.COMP. ROBERT THOMAS WRIGHT, Treasurer and Past King of Dalriada RAC 57 andChatham Hall Masonic Lodge No. 152

Robert Wright was killed on Sunday September 6th2015, the result of an accident. He was the husband ofLorna, 28 Main Street, Stranocum, and father of David,Linda Jayne and Jordan, father-in-law of Catherine, sonof Mary and the late Thomas, brother of Samuel andTrevor brother-in-law, nephew and uncle. His Funeralwas from his home on Wednesday, 9th at 2.00pm toRoseyards Presbyterian Graveyard. To Lorna, David,Linda Jayne, Jordan, Catherine, Mary, Samuel and Trevorwe etend our sincere condolences in these most sadcircumstances.

OBITUARYE.COMP. ROBERT JAMES (RON) BOYCE

Ron was a Past Master of the Lodge of St. John 330,Ballymoney, A Past Provincial Officer of PGL of Antrim,a Past King of this Chapter in 1993 having been ealtedin November 1973 and served the Chapter as aChaplain for 20 years from February 1995 to February2015. He was also an E Sir Knight of Dalriada Councilof Knight Masons No. 68 and Past Preceptor ofBallymoney Preceptory. He will indeed be sadly missednot just in this Chapter but in many other branches ofthe order.

December 20th 2015 peacefully at his home, 122Newbridge Road, Ballymoney, Robert James (Ron),husband of Bertha, father of Nigel and Mandy, father-in-

law of Carol and Colin, Grandpa of Emma, Neil, Jamie,Ross and Ewan and brother of Max, Deirdre and thelate Pat. Funeral Service on Tuesday, at 1.00pm in St.James’s Presbyterian Church, burial afterwards inBallymoney Cemetery. To Bertha, Nigel, Mandy, Carol,Colin, Emma, Neil, Jamie, Ross and Ewan, Max, andDeirdre we etend our sincere condolences.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

140 • Crumlin

EComp. Ken Harbinson (seated centre) E King ofCrumlin RAC 140 pictured with Officers,members and guests who attended the annual

installation evening in Crumlin Masonic Hall on Mondayevening, 21st December. Included are R. E. Comp.Thomas J. McCurley, District Deputy Grand King, R. E.Comm. James McClurg, District Grand Registrar whowas the Installing Officer, Comp. Dennis Minford, HighPriest, Comp David Mitchell, Chief Scribe, E Comp.Ronald Fyffe-McFadden, Registrar and E Comp DavidMcFetridge, Treasurer. Photograph by Pat McGuiganPhotography, Randalstown.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

154 • Prince of Wales Own

On Monday 24th February 2016 the Companionsand their Guests assembled at Arthur SquareMasonic Centre for the RAC installation and

presentation of 25 year jewel and certificates. TheOfficers Installed were EK Stan Myers, HP DannyMcLean and CS Norman Graham. The Installing Officerwas EC Joe Crawford who carried out his duties in a

most eemplary manner and they were later congratulatedby the installing officers and EC Derek McAllister.

After the Installation ceremony the Companionsretired to the Dining Room where they and their guestswere treated to an ecellent meal provided by Florenceand her efficient staff. The usual Masonic Toasts werehonoured and suitable replies given in what was anecellent evening for all who were honoured to attend.The principle guest was DAGK W James Lynch whocongratulated the EK and Council, spoke on DistrictGrand Chapter and also congratulated the Chapter ontheir innovative meal of Prawns, Lamb and Pears.

EK Council, Members and Guests.

EK Council, DAGK W James Lynch and EC Joe Crawford.

Left: EC Tom Cochrane who received his 25 Year Jewel andCertificate. Right: Comp Chris Rainey receiving his MMM andRAC Certificates.

Left: DAGK W James Lynch, Past EK Joe Riley and EK StanMeyers. Right: Past EK Joe Riley and EK Stan Myers.

Please email articles for the Banner, together with any accompanyingphotographs, to: [email protected]

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

160 • Templepatrick

The installation convocation of Templepatrick RAC160 was held in Templepatrick Masonic Hall onWednesday evening 9th Dec 2015.

The Installing Officer was, R. E. Comp. Ken Porter.The Officers Installed were: E.K, E. Comp. Raymond

McDonald; H.P. E. Comp. Trevor Michael; C.S. E. Comp.Stewart Crawford.

After the Installation the Brethren all retired to theMaldron Hotel for a beautiful festive board where theusual Toasts were honoured and speeches made.

The photograph shows the EK and Council togetherwith the guests, REC W James Lynch RE District AssistantGrand King and REC James H McClurg District GrandRegistrar.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

175 • St. Patrick’s

Saint Patrick’s Union R.A.C. No. 175 Raloo at itsStated Convocation held on 7th December 2015welcomed the District Grand King, Most E. Comp.

J McA. Pollock, to their installation of Officers, which washeld in the Masonic Centre, Mill Brae, Larne. There,together with a good representation of visitors fromLocal Chapters they saw E. Comp. Gary A. James Installedas E. King and his Council comprising of H.P. Comp. IanMcKeown and the C.S. Comp. Andrew Higgins (Jnr.). Theywere installed by V. E. Comp. W.K. Houston, a member ofthe Chapter, in his usual eemplary manner.

The sincere thanks of the Chapter must be accordedto E. Comp. James for remaining in the Chair at very shortnotice and the ecellent way in which he invested his Officerswith only a few hours revision! Thanks must also go to V. E.Comp. William (Billy) McWilliams (R.A.C. 375) who had tostep into the Office of D.O.C. at even shorter notice!

Our King Elect, Comp. S.E. (Ted) Drummond, wasunfortunately unable to be with us on this occasion due

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to an etended stay in hospital after receiving a hipreplacement although he hopes to be well enough to beInstalled at our March Convocation. Get well soon Ted.

One of the highlights of the evening was thepresentation of a Diamond Jubilee Certificate (60yr) to E.Comp. John McMurtry who still attends the Chapter on aregular basis even in his nineties. John received his M.M.M.Degree on 7th June 1954, was Ealted on 5th September1954 and served as E. King in 1968. He was also electedfirst Almoner of the Chapter at its inception in 1998 until2012 when he retired due to his age??

An enjoyable festive board was held afterwards in thefunction room.

Council and District Guests.

DGK, John McMurty and George Woods, his son-in-law.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

180 • Abbey

Avery special Stated Convocation was held onMonday 11th May, in Whiteabbey MasonicCentre, when 9 Companions of Abbey RAC

180, representing 321 years of membership, werepresented with 25 year Jewels and Silver JubileeCertificates. The Most Ecellent District Grand King,M.E.Companion J McA Pollock was principal guest andwhile the ME DGK was in the Chair he thanked theCompanions of Abbey 180 for their warm welcome,saying, that this was his first time with Abbey RAC 180since becoming DGK and he was looking forward tospending the evening with us and in particular in thecompany of 9 companions who had given so muchtime to Royal Arch Masonry.

The MEDGK personally presented all 9 recipientswith their 25 year Jewel while our Ecellent King, EcellentCompanion Freddie Hoy assisted presenting the 9“Special Ones” with their Silver Jubilee Certificate.Following the Stated Convocation the “Special Ones”with the MEDGK , and Companions of 180 plus theirguests retired to the Festive Board room for a wellearned buffet, followed by the normal toasts andthankfully short speeches in response. A very good timewas had by all present.

One Companion, representing another 37 years ofmembership, was missing at the May Convocation.E.Comp. Jim Lyons was cruising the Pacific and was inHawaii at the time. We picked him up at our OctoberConvocation where he was presented with his 25 yearJewel and Silver Jubilee Certificate by Ecellent KingFreddie Hoy.

With the Most Ecellent District Grand King, M.E.Comp. JonMcA Pollock and Ecellent King Freddie Hoy are the 9recipients of the 25 year Jewel and Certificate. From Left toRight:- E.Comp. Alan Hunter, E.Comp. Jim McLaughlin,R.E.Comp. Joe Corr, E.Comp. Dennis Rowland, V.E.Comp. BillMcClenaghan, Comp. Billy Fagan, E.Comp. Bill Patterson,E.Comp. Bobby Spiers and E.Comp. Drew Welsh.

E.Comp. Jim Lyons receiving his 25 year Jewel and Silver JubileeCertificate from Ecellent King Freddie Hoy at the OctoberConvocation, making a total of 10 presentations in 2015.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

246 • Broughshane

The Installation of Officers of The William MehaffeyChapter 246, took place in the BroughshaneMasonic Hall on Tuesday 1 December 2015.

The Installation was attended by 30 members of theChapter and an equal number of visitors. The occasionwas dignified with the attendance of the Most EcellentDistrict Grand King J McA Pollock, who on occupyingthe chair thanked the Companions for the warmwelcome. He proceeded to inform the Brethren ofmatters concerning Chapter Masonry within theDistrict and reflected positively on the large number ofmembers and visitors attending this installation.

On returning the Sceptre to the Ecellent KingDavid Reynolds, Companion Reynolds thanked theCompanions for their support during the year, notingthat he had enjoyed his year as Ecellent King. He theninvited Ecellent Companion John Stewart to occupythe chair to install the officers for the incoming year.Having done so in an inspiring and professional manner,

Left: Companions, ‘Brothers’ Grimm’, McCullough and McCullough.Right: Companions McCullough, Taggart and Kidd ‘Dividing the Food’.

E. Companion Andy Kennedy responds on behalf of the visitors.

Left: E. King Gordon McClintock (left) with High Priest ‘who ateall the ice cream’ John Ritchie (centre) and Very E. CompanionGeorge Graham. Right: Most E. District Grand King Mc APollock with the newly installed EK Gordon McClintock(centre) and E. Companion David Reynolds.

the Ecellent King, Companion Gordon McClintock,installed his Officers, again in an eemplary manner.

The evening concluded with a generous and wellprovided festive board.

The stated convocation of the William MehaffeyRAC No. 246, Broughshane held on Tue. 1st March 2016had very special significance with the presentation of a50 Year Jewel to their highly esteemed CompanionWilliam Knox. Comp. Knox received his RAC Degreeon 3rd Sept. 1963.

Although William is now confined to a wheel chair,he is very active in mind and insisted on attending hisChapter convocation to receive his jewel andcertificate.

R. E. Comp. W. James Lynch, the DAGK was inattendance on the evening to assist the E. King, E.Comp. Gordon McClintock with the presentation.

A large number of the Chapter Companionsattended on the evening and many enjoyed sharingmemories of past events with Comp. Knox. At theclose of the Convocation all retired to the functionsuite for a lovely supper, provided by the Companionsand superbly prepared by Sadie Davidson. Comp.William entertained the members to many stories ofhis past eploits in the Lodge and Chapter and he wascontinually surrounded by many of his peers all eagerto share in the conversation.

Comp. Knox thanked all concerned for attending andfor providing the supper and spoke of how happy hewas to attend. A large group of Companions gatheredon the footpath outside the hall to say ‘cheerio’ toWilliam as he was driven away. He was smiling andwaving as he departed. William may have been aCompanion in the Chapter room but he certainly was‘King’ on the night.

Comp. Knox proudly displays his 50 Year Jewel and Certificateas he poses with the 246 Chapter Officers.

Comp. William Knoxreceives his 50 YearJewel and Certificatefrom The DAGK andthe E. King E. Comp.Gordon McClintock.

C H A P T E R R E P O R T S C H A P T E R R E P O R T S


ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

253 • Carrickfergus

On Tuesday 24th November 2015 a newmember received his Mark Master Degree atMark Master Mason Lodge 253 for Hills

Gillhall Chapter No in Carrickfergus. Bro Sam Moorereceived his degree from V.W.Bro Billy Brown to a wellattended and well turned out MMM Lodge. VWBroAndrew Speers was in the Chair and VWBro GordonKeep was the Director of Ceremonies on the occasion.

On Tuesday 8th December 2015 the members ofRAC 253 assembled in the masonic centre for theRoyal Arch Installation. The principal guest was REC WJames Lynch, DAGK of Antrim. The Degrees wereconferred by EC Gordon Keep and VEC Roy Whitesidewas Director of Ceremonies. REC Lynch took theChair for the customary address to the companionsand the signing of the minutes. EC Andrew Speers wasinstalled as EK, Comp. David Carrol as High Priest andE Comp Billy Dowds as Chief Scribe.

The VWM and members of Mark Master Mason Lodge 253with the new W Member Sam Moore.

The EK, Council, Members and Guests.

The DDGK, EK and Council and Installing Officer.

After the installation the Companions retired tothe Dining Room where an ecellent meal wasprovided by Mr Bertie Douglas and his staff. The usualtoasts were proposed and responded to and a mostenjoyable evening was had by all attending.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

260 • Redhall

On Easter Monday 6th April the Lodge andRAC 260 hosted the traditional BigBreakfast at the Masonic Hall, Ballycarry. So

famous is the Big Breakfast that Masons from as faraway as Belfast and even North Antrim turn up tosample the fare and Billy Scott arranged the RNLI incase there was an emergency.

The PGM RW Bro. John Dickson, RW Bro DennisMillen, VW Bro Charles Holmes were there to samplethe meal and RW Bro Robert Bashford when notphotographing the dignitaries managed to also samplethe fare (see photographic evidence attached). These events do not just happen, they take a lot of

planning and effort by the Companions at Rehall in theprovision of over 200 meals. This is unlike a restaurantwhere diners book a time, table and the staff canprepare the food in a timely manner against the shoutingof “Yes Chef”. There is none of this personal histrionicsin Redhall, Billy Scott, John Peoples, Jim Reid, DarrenMcIlveen, Chris Wheelan and the other Companionsdeal with all the demands in a professional and friendlymanner, without any fuss.

Support RAC and Lodge at Redhall 260 by attendingand enjoying the Big Breakfast on Easter Monday. I hopeyou were there in 2016.

Left: John Peoples the master of toast. Right: Billy Scott beingegged on by son-in-law Darren.

Left: Robert Bashford. Right: The Beggs family.

Charles Holmes and family.

The PGM and family.

Chris Wheelan with the lifeboat crew.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

275 • Sidon

Our Ecellent King for 2015 was E. CompanionDavid Robinson who had affiliated to Sidonseveral years ago. Being a past king from

Queen Victoria RAC 294 in the District of Down. hebrought eperience and knowledge to the office in whatwas to be a very busy year.

He was assisted by his High Priest E Comp VictorCraig and Chief Scribe Companion Edward Ellison.

In April we welcomed Companion Derek Cooperto the Chapter as a Companion rejoining the orderafter a short break of just under 2 years. Derek has 15years Royal Arch eperience behind him and has settledin, always filling in for offices, well read and alwayslending a helping hand when needed. We wish him wellon his return to the order.

The first part of the year was etremely busy for usas we held several emergency convocations in orderto ealt five new candidates to Sidon. CompanionsRodel Jazul, David Jacobs, Nicholas McRobert, DavidBowman and Mark Wilson received their degrees andwere in place in the chapter for our May closing nightconvocation and buffet supper. They were presentedwith their certificates by the Past District Grand Kingof Antrim, Most Ecellent Companion E Cyril Fergusonwho had attended as a visitor. Companion Jacobs’father E. Companion Harold Jacobs of Rechab RACwas present and had the privilege of assisting in theritual during the degrees. Their degrees weredelivered by Companion Johnny Tarr of RAC 427 andour very own Chief Scribe Companion EdwardEllison. Both companions who are known for gooddelivery of degrees in other branches of the orderand whilst not having worked together before on thedegrees made up a very professional duo, the degreeswere delivered clearly and sincerely, from the heart.We are confident our five new Companions areenthusiastic about the Royal Arch and will hopefullyform the mainstay of the chapter one day along withthose companions who we have joined us within thelast few years.

As 2015 drew to a close we were pleased towelcome another member to Sidon, CompanionWayne Owen. Wayne received his degrees at GoldenPillar RAC in Crumlin Road hall. After a very busy yearfor us, we were indebted to Golden Pillar and themembers of the Crumlin Road RA class for helpingus out in this way.

January 2016 saw Sidon being honoured by a visitof the MEDGK Most Ecellent Companion J McAPollock at our installation night. E. CompanionStephen Rodgers another “Down” man took over asEcellent King and was placed in the chair by E.Companion Harry Robinson from Straid RAC 276.

The EK together with the 5 new candidates. Back row:Companions MA Wilson & DT Jacobs. Front row: CompanionsR Jazul, N McRobert, E. Comp. David Armstrong EK,Companion D Bowman.



Harry delivered an excellent set of installation ritualand was commended by all present. Later, before ourinstallation meal the District Grand King waspresented with an Napkin with his name and titleembroidered not in English tet but with ancientMasonic cypher. Some 45 Companions attended andan ecellent night was had by all. In finishing I can onlysay I would hope 2016 is alot quieter but then Isuppose that would make it less enjoyable!

VEC G Cummings, Reg

Sidon and guests at the closing night convocation.

Most E District Grand King, E Comp. S Rodgers and Councilof Sidon 2016 with EC H Robinson Installing officer.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

313 • Chichester

On Friday 20th November 2015 the Companionsassembled at Carrickfergus Masonic Centre forthe MMM and RAC Installations. Due to

unforeseen circumstances the VWM elect wasprevented from attending the evening when his MMMOfficers were installed so both his own installation andthe RAC installation were carried out on the sameevening. The MMM installation was carried out byVWBro. Andrew Brown in an eemplary manner. TheMMM Officers installed were VWM Charles Bell, SWJohn Humphreys and JW Grant Smyth.

Later that evening the Installing Officer was ECAaron Reid who installed EK Charles Bell, HP JohnHumphreys and CS Grant Smyth. Aaron carried outhis Installation duties in a most efficient manner as healways does in both the Craft and RAC.

After the Installation ceremony the Companionsretired to the dining room where they and their guestswere treated to an ecellent meal provided by Bertie

Douglas and his efficient staff. The usual Masonic Toastswere honoured and suitable replies given in what wasan ecellent evening for all who attended.

for Malcolm to make attendances but the Companionswere very considerate and understanding and assuredhim they would fill in where required particularly E CFrank James and V E C James Rainey. He was installed EKin 1993. Again as one capable with the pen he was electedRegistrar in 1997 (18 years), which office he has filledwith distinction and much epertise. At the JanuaryConvocation of the ME DGC of Antrim in 2009, Malcolmwas installed and invested VEDG Capt of the Scarlet Veilhere in Carrickfergus by the present DGK ME Comp. JMcA Pollock. What better office could you give a SeaCaptain. Malcolm is also a Foreign Representative at theSupreme Grand Chapter of Ireland.

Malcolm is a member and Past Preceptor inCarrickfergus Preceptory. He has been the Chairmanof the Preceptory Class of Instruction in Whiteabbeyin recent years.

Malcolm has many interests which encompass theRoyal British Legion, The Mission to Seafarers and manyother organisations where, supported by his wife Wilmaand his family, he makes a valuable contribution to them all.

Malcolm is not retiring, he is just making a mid-term adjustment, which like turning an oil-tanker willtake some space and time. We all join in wishing hima most enjoyable and rewarding time in ChichesterChapter 313.

DUBLIN TRIP – 14th MAY 2016Along with our Scottish Brethren Lodge 313 invite

you to a day trip to Dublin with Breakfast and 3course Evening meal in Newry Masonic Hall. A Tourof Grand Lodge is also arranged departing fromCarrickfergus Hall at 9:00 am and returning toCarrickfergus for latest 10:00 pm. on Saturday 14thMay 2016. Booking at £35 per person is available nowfrom Lodge Secretary or W.Bro Charlie Bell at thefollowing numbers: Mike McKenzie, 028 93378632,07518481555; Charlie Bell, 07713085860

All welcome including wives, partners and friends.

The Officers of MM Lodge 313.

The Officers, Members and Guests.

The Installing Officer EC Aaron Reid and VEC Harry Graingerwith the EK, HP & CS of the Chapter.

PRESENTATION TO MEC MALCOLM RCOWTON, RETIRING REGISTRAR

On Thursday 14th January 2016 the Companions ofRAC 313 recognised the service to the Chapter byMalcolm Cowton. The Companions were delighted thatthe RE DAGK W James Lynch was able to be presenton the occasion and make the presentation to Malcolm.

Malcolm a Yorkshire man, served as a member ofthe Merchant Navy for many years reaching the rankof Captain in Shell. He is a member of a number ofFraternal Orders including Freemasonry.

Malcolm joined Chichester Lodge No 313 on 20thDecember 1976 and was Installed WM in 1988. He wasSecretary of the Lodge for many years. He is presentlyChaplain. He was installed a Provincial Officer forAntrim and is Lodge 313 Representative on the Boardof Purposes and attended many additional meetingsdue to circumstances in recent years where he gave aprecise account of the agenda to the Brethren.

In a natural progression he joined the ChichesterRAC 313 in 1984. M E Comp Capt Malcolm Cowtonwas proposed into the Chapter by E C Capt. Bob Annetta fellow seafarer. He found the Chapter very relaxedgenerally and it hasn’t changed much. It hadn’t been easy

Malcolm with the Officers and members of RAC 313.

Left: The DAGK WM James Lynch, Malcolm and VE CompHarry Grainger DOC. Right: Malcolm being congratulated byVE Comp Jim Rainey, Treasurer.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

317 • Doagh Union

The Companions of the Chapter were saddenedby the death of one of their senior membersEC James Quinn.

EC Quinn, a retired RUC Officer passed away onTuesday May 19th, 2015, peacefully, at hospital. Jimmylived at Rathmena Gardens, Ballyclare, was thehusband of the late Naomi and brother of Robertaand brother-in-law to George. His Funeral Service washeld at Roselawn Crematorium on Friday 22nd at4.30 p.m. To Roberta, George, nephews, nieces andfamily circle. We etend our sincere condolences.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

372 • Hills Gillhall

On Tuesday 24th November 2015 a new memberreceived his Mark Master Degree at MarkMaster Mason Lodge 253 for Hills Gillhall

Chapter No 372 Arthur Square, Belfast. Bro Sam Moorereceived his degree from W.Bro Billy Brown to a wellattended and well turned out MMM Lodge. VWBroAndrew Speers was in the Chair and WBro Gordon Keepwas the Director of Ceremonies on the occasion.

Above: Sam with the VWMof 253 and the 372Officers present. Left: BillyBrown congratulating Samon his MMM Degree.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

340 • Corinthian

Aunique RAC which meets on the first Wednesdayin September, November, February and March inArthur Square Masonic Hall at 1.15pm.

Each convocation is followed by a light lunch ofcheese and crackers.

Interested? Contact Ian McManus on 9267 0168.



ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

375 • Latharna

Latharna R.A.C. No. 375 Larne Stated Convocationheld on 23rd November 2015 welcomed MEC BillScott, MEC Billy Brown and VEC W.K. Houston to

their Installation of Officers, which was held in theMasonic Centre, Mill Brae, Larne. There, together with agood representation of visitors from local Chapters theysaw E. Comp. Dennis Mercer installed as E. King and hisCouncil comprising of H.P. E. Comp. Robert McAleeseand the C.S. Comp. James Malcolmson. They wereinstalled by E. Comp. Paul Metson, a member of theChapter, in his usual eemplary manner. The Director ofCeremonies was VE Comp. Billy McWilliams who carriedout his duties in a most efficient manner.

After the installation ceremony the Companionsretired to the dining room where ecellent meals wereprovided by Marty’s Catering Staff. The usual toastswere proposed and responded to and the eveningconcluded with the National Anthem.

The EK, Council, Officers, Members and Guests.

The Installing Officer VEC Paul Metson and VE Comp BillyMcWilliams with the EK and Council.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

450 • Portglenone

Portglenone RAC No. 450 installation convocation12th Dec 2015 was held in the PortglenoneMasonic Centre.

There were a large gathering of ChapterCompanions and their guests, including many prominentCompanions from Antrim, Down and Londonderry-Donegal-Tyrone and Fermanagh Districts.

V. E. Comp. Raymond Kenny was Installed as theEK. (V. E. Comp. Kenny had also been their EK in 1993)The HP Installed was Comp. Cyril Kenny a cousin ofthe EK. E. Comp Noel Hanna who was not able to bepresent on the Installation evening, will be installed asCS at the net Convocation.

The Installing Officer was V. E. Comp. David Kyle.The District Officer in attendance was W. James

Lynch DAGK.After the Convocation the Companions retired to

the function room for the beautiful festive boardsupplied by Iris Edgar of ‘Iris’s Farmhouse Cuisine’.

The usual Toasts were honoured and manyhumorous speeches given. The evening concludedwith the singing of the National Anthem.

The newly installed Officers of RAC 450, together with theirdistinguished guests.

The newly installed Officers of RAC 450, (L to R). DAGK; HP,Comp. Cyril Kenny; EK, V. E. Comp. Raymond Kenny; CS, (proxy)E. Comp. Jackie Hanna.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

466 • Alliance

On Tuesday 12th January 2016 companions ofAlliance RAC 466 in the presence of theDGK Most Ecellent Companion J McA

Pollock installed the EK, Council & Officers for 2016.The DGK has been a regular visitor to 466 duringtheir annual installation ceremony and it is sincerelyhoped he will continue to grace us with his presenceeven though he has had his workload increased by hisrecent appointment as DGK. Having occupied thechair and presided for a short period of time over theproceedings the Most Ecellent DGK took theopportunity to take a back seat and allow the VeryEcellent Companion Roy Lamont to continue with theinstallation of the EK, Ecellent Companion IvorArchibald for another year at the helm.

On the conclusion of the installation and allsuitable thanks being conveyed the EK directed theDOC, Very Ecellent Companion Roy Lamont topresent Companion Leslie Hill to the foot of the daiswhere suitably assisted by the DGK, Companion Hillwas presented with his 50 year jewel and certificatefrom Supreme Grand RAC of Ireland. Leslie hadjoined Alliance RAC on 15 October 1965. The DGKand EK both having congratulated Companion Hill and

having intimated just how worthy and well deservedaccolade the presentation of the 50yr RAC jewel was,Companion Hill was escorted back to his seat andthe brethren suitably congratulated him with a roundof applause. Companion Hill thanked the MostEcellent DGK, EK and companions for their kindsalutations and presentation of his jewel.

During the speeches at the festive boardimmediately following the installation, Most EcellentCompanion Hamilton Martin responded as has becomethe norm in 466 for many years. Hammy went on toinform the Companions that he had the good fortuneto have been invited as a guest to 466 for the last 46years and only last year through ill health had he had todecline. He etended thanks to his host Most EcellentCompanion Sam Richardson and also to the EK andCompanions for the friendship and welcome both heand the guests receive at such communications. TheCompanions of 466 are always delighted to see Hammyat our communications and we hope he will be longspared to attend in the future.

L-R above, DGK M.E Comp J McA Pollock, Comp Leslie Hilland EK E Comp Ivor Archibald.

L-R E.K E Comp Ivor Archibald, ME DGK ME Comp J McAPollock, ME Comp Hamilton Martin & Sam Richardson.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

574 • Clough

Clough RAC No. 574 held their ChapterInstallation on Friday evening 5th Feb 2016 inthe Masonic Hall Clough. Almost 40

Companions in attendance. E. Comp. David Houstonwas the Installing Officer. Other guests included R.E.Comp. W. James Lynch the DAGK; M. E. Comp.Crawford Mitchell, Foreign Representative of theGrand Chapter of New Hampshire at the SGRAC ofIreland and also present Grand R.A. Captain atSupreme Grand Chapter, also R. E. Comp. RobertWilson C. S. at the District Grand RAC of Antrim andV. E. Comp. Colin Watt District Grand Inspector plusmany more present and past District Officers.

The Newly Installed Officers with the District Guest and theInstalling Officer. L to R; DAGK; Comp. Lei Scott H.P.; E. Comp.Alastair Purvis E.K.; Comp. Andrew Shannon C.S.; E. Comp. DavidHouston Installing Officer.

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E. Comp. David Houston a personal friend of theComp Alastair Purvis was the Installing Officer. HeInstalled Comp. Purvis in an eemplary manner.

The newly installed E. K. then proceeded to installhis Officers in a most professional manner.

Following the installation convocation all theCompanions retired to the R. L. Orr function suite forthe festive board. The usual Toasts were honoured andspeeches made. The evening concluded with the singingof the National Anthem.

The Newly Installed Officers of Clough RAC No. 574.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

602 • St. Patrick’s

There was a good turnout of Companions andguests at the annual Installation of Officers in StPatrick’s RAC No. 602 held in Lisburn masonic

centre on Friday 26th February 2016.The installing officer was M. E. Comp. Thomas Yarr.

The E. King Installed, for his second term was, E. Comp.E,. Geoffrey Rea. The H.P. was V. E. Comp. RonnieMorgan and the C.S. was Comp. Ivan Anderson.

The E. King then proceeded to install his Officersin a most efficient and competent manner.

The E. King and Council pictured with Companions and guestsat the recent installation of St Patrick’s RAC No. 602 held inLisburn Masonic Centre on Friday 26th February 2016. Thosepictured in the front row are, (L to R) M. E. Comp. RichardAughey, Past High Priest Supreme Grand Chapter and PastDistrict Deputy Grand King; R. E. Comp. W. James LynchDistrict Assistant Grand King; V. E. Comp. Ronnie Morgan, H.P.;E Comp. E. Geoffrey Rea, E .K; Comp. Ivan Anderson C.S; V. E.Comp. Laurence Fisher.

After the Convocation all Companions retired toone of the Centre function rooms, where a beautifulmeal was served by Hilltop Caterers.

The usual speeches were made and the toastshonoured. The wonderful evening concluded with thesinging of the National Anthem.

The newly installed EK and Council of St Patrick’ RAC No. 602,(L to R) DAGK; V. E. Comp. Ronnie Morgan, H.P.; E Comp. E.Geoffrey Rea, E .K; Comp. Ivan Anderson C.S; M. E. Comp.Richard Aughey, Past High Priest Supreme Grand Chapter andPast District Deputy Grand King.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

651 • Finaghy

Finaghy RAC No 651 held it’s installation atLisburn Masonic Centre. The principal guest wasREComp. Tom McCurley DDGK of Antrim.

Those installed wereE Comp C. Russell EK, Comp D Robinson HP, and

E Comp W. McKinley acted as Chief Scribe.

Comp D Robinson HP, RE Comp T. J.McCurley DDGK, E CompC. Russell EK & E Comp W. McKinley acted as Chief Scribe.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

704 • Ahoghill

REC W James Lynch, RE DAGK attended AhoghillRAC No. 704 on 5th June 2015 and presented 9,25 year jewels and certificates. These Jewels

were presented to all very active members of theChapter. All well-known masons and companions.

One member could not be in attendance on thisevening, otherwise that would have been 10 Companions.I was also pleased to assist in the presentation of MMMand RAC Certificates to three new Companions.

In addition to all this a successful ballot was heldfor two new members. Ahoghill RAC 704 is goingstrong and in a very healthy state. Following theConvocation all retired to the function suite in theBallymena Masonic Centre for a beautiful supper.

The DAGK and the EK with the three new Companions whoreceived their MMM and RA Certificates. L to R, DAGK;Comp. Geordie Bell; Comp. Jonathan McMillan; Comp. RichardMcKeown; E. Comp. Richard Craig EK.

The Companions who received their 25Year Jewel andCertificate. Back Row L to R, E. Comp. John Johnston; V. E. Comp.Thomas McKendry; V. E. Comp. Crawford McClintock;E. Comp. Brian Nicholl; V. E. Comp. John Stewart. Front Row,L to R, E. Comp. Albert Glenn; E. Comp. George Johnston; DAGK;E. Comp. Richard Craig E.K.; E. Comp. William J. McLaughlin.[Missing from the picture is Comp. Samuel B. Allen]

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

775 • Ballymena

RAC 775 held it’s annual Installation on Thursdayevening 10th Dec. 2015 in the Masonic CentreBallymena. A very large attendance of 70

Companions present. The E.K. E. Comp James A. G.Wilson installed the new E. K. Comp. Raymond Lynn.E. Comp. Wilson, in forming a Council of Installed E.King’s, created another chapter in RAC 775’s historyas this was made up of, himself, his Father andGrandfather. (See accompanying photo)

The newly installed E. King, E. Comp. RaymondLynn installed all his Officers in a most competentmanner, his ritual was word perfect and no notes orpaperwork on display. The D. O. C. was V. E. Comp.David Henderson, who kept everything moving alongin military fashion.

The unique Council of Installed King’s formed for theInstallation of the new E. K. of RAC 775 in Ballymena MasonicCentre on 10th Dec. 2015. Left to Right. The Grandfather, V.E. Comp. Albert Fullerton; The Grandson, E. Comp. JamesWilson the E. K. (who Installed his successor) The Father, R. E.Comp. Robert Wilson.

The newly Installed Officers of RAC 775 together with thedistinguished guests. H.P. Comp. Alan McCullough; E.K. E.Comp Raymond Lynn; C.S. Comp. William Allen.

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The newly Installed Officers of RAC 775 together with thedistinguished guests, R. E. Comp. Thomas McCurley DDGK; R. E. Comp. W. James Lynch DAGK; M. E. Comp. James H.McClurg C.S. SGRAC of Ireland.

Following the Convocation the companions movedto the function suite where a beautiful supper wasserved to over 70 people. The usual Toasts werehonoured and many serious and humorous speechesmade. The evening closed with the singing of theNational Anthem.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

811 • St. John’s

Afew editions ago the Ferguson family of 811Chapter featured when VE Companion Walterpinned the past Kings jewel on his son Alan on

his vacating the chair. The jewel incidentally wasinherited from Walter's father who joined 811 in 1955Alan being of the third generation to do so. At ourInstallation dinner on 14th April we were delighted tosee Walter receive his 50 year jewel,. UnfortunatelyAlan was prevented from attendance through workpressure. Also significantly it was the last visit to theChapter by R.E. Richard Aughey in his official capacityas Dist Deputy Grnd King who made the presentation.

L.R.: RE R Aughey; VE Walter Ferguson; E. King Gecil Taylor.

May both Companions live long and continue theirinvaluable support to 811 R.A.C.

St. John’s RAC 811 is one of the older Chapters inthe District of Antrim and actually pre-dates theInauguration of the District Grand Royal ArchChapter in 1911. The Chapter was dedicated in 1830a year which was not without some significant events.William IV succeeded his brother George IV as Kingof Britain and Ireland, The US passed the IndianRemoval Act whereby Native Indians were removedwest of the Mississippi River. You can understand whythe members of St John’s Chapter 811 are so proudof their history.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

1020 • Thiepval

There was a good turnout of Companions andtheir guests at the installation of OfficersConvocation in Broughshane Masonic Hall on

Tuesday evening 15th December 2015. E. Comp. JimMcGookin was the Installing Officer. Many distinguishedCompanions in attendance, V. E. Comp’s Samuel Letters;Thomas McKendry, Ronnie Callaghan Ivan Louden and

V. E. Comp. Albert Fullerton, the ‘father figure’ of theChapter, also his Son-in-law, R. E. Comp. Robert Wilsonthe current DGCS, R. E. Comp. Thomas Young the PastR. E. DGHP. Three District Grand Inspectors, V. E.Comp’s Michael Aleander; David Henderson; Colin Wattand many other E. Companions.

The official district guest was W. James LynchDAGK, who is also a foundation member of theChapter.

After the Convocation the Companions retired tothe downstairs function suite where a beautiful Buffetsupper was served.

Thereafter followed the usual toasts and speechesand the evening closed with the singing of the NationalAnthem.

The E, King and Council of RAC 1020 at their Installation,(L to R) R. E. Comp. Jim Lynch DAGK; H. P. E. Comp. WilliamMcMordie; E.K. E. Comp. Cyril Bones; C.S. E. Comp. Roy Naylor;E. Comp. James McGookin the Installing Officer.

The Newly installed E. King and Council with their Officersand Guests at the Installation of The Thiepval RAC No. 1020.

The District Grand Registrar Writes

by James H McClurg, District Grand Registrar.

At the end of, or at the start of a financial year,or a school year or perhaps a Masonic year wemay reflect on the progress made, on how the

year has gone. Giving consideration to those timeswhen things could have been done diffrerently. Toparaphrase "Immitating those whose work has beenpraiseworthy and avoiding those whose work wedeemed defective."

Was 2015 a memorable year, or is it bestforgotten. Where there anniversaries in your family,did you receive Craft , Royal Arch etc 'honours', wereyou Installed in a 'Chair' of a Branch of the Order.Perhaps you attended several funerals or more, somefamily, some neighbours, some Masonic friends.Possibly, on the front of the Order of Service,following the persons name was his age or 19?? -2015. That little dash between the two dates may havebeen alluded to by the Minister, some of the dates andevents were known to you, some were not.

2016 contains many anniversaries, some Political,some Religious, many which will cause tension,recrimination, bitterness. However we were told inthe entered Apprentice Degree that "no discussion ofa religious or Political nature was to take place in theLodge Room or at the Festive Board afterwards", so Ineed to avoid further comment.

Science Fiction has quite often incorporated 'TimeTravel'. Would it be wise?? to go forward a year and

see how 2016 turns out. Not just the sporting events,or General or local Elections, or how your favouriteT V program pans out. Maybe how a family memberperforms in Eams at age 11, 16, 18 or 22/23.

As I said last year, your Craft Lodge is very, veryimportant. Important that you attend and supportthose in Office. Important that you look out for newMembers, remembering that quality vastly outweighsquantity. Of course ALL Branches of the Order towhich you belong are important. and the Brethreninvolved. Be aware of the Mason whose poor health,financial difficulties, family inconsistencies are deemedto be private.

As I also said last year, the attendance at MasonicServices can be used by those who would like tocriticise. Your attendance at morning and/or eveningworship may encourage someone to join our Order.Please continue to support your Church and attendas many Masonic Charity services as possible.

Aim to make 2016 memorable as far as the Craft,Royal Arch etc is concerned

At the time of writing, plans are taking place towelcome our Companions from the Provincial GrandChapter of Argyll and the Isles on their bi-annual visit.They are planning to arrive late Thursday 26th Maystaying until Sunday morning 29th May. DistrictChapter will therefore meet on Saturday 28th May inRosemary Street at 2:00 pm. Details of Events will beadvised and your support would be appreciated.

Please continue to support the District Grand King,Senior Officers and all Officers of The District GrandRoyal Arch Chapter of Antrim by your attendance andensure that your Representative attends the Board ofGeneral Purposes, taking part in discussion for thegeneral good of Royal Arch Masonry.

Please email articles for the Banner, togetherwith any accompanying photographs, to: [email protected]

DAY TRIP TO DUBLINLodge No. 41 will be holding their September

Communication on Saturday 3rd September 2016 inthe Grand Lodge Room Molesworth Street, Dublin. Alimited number of seats are available to brethren andfamily, friends of other lodges on a first come, firstserved basis. Price (includes an Ulster Fry and a threecourse roast beef dinner at Newry Masonic Centre)is only £30. A £15 deposit per head (non-refundable)will secure a seat. Balance to be paid by 1st June 2016.A coach will leave Larne Masonic Centre at 8.45amsharp that morning.

Contact W.Bro. T. Richardson 07909 842687 fordetails. Carrickfergus brethren wishing to travel canbe picked up at the Castle Car Park.


Whiteabbey Masonic CentreThursday 19th November 2015

THE INSPECTORS MEETING

The Inspectors who were in attendance. The DGK addresses the Inspector’s meeting.

The David’s listen whilst Michael checks his notes. The Senior Officers who attended the Inspector’s meeting.

Fred and Maurice ‘listen’ whilst Clarence makes ‘notes’. All enjoyed a lovely supper following the Inspector’s meeting.

The DGK with the Senior District Officers and the Inspectors. A welcome cuppa.

On Saturday 15th August2015 a masonic day washeld at the Centre at Mill

Brae. Included in the event wasbbq stall, vintage cars, re-enactment personnel, an airsoftrange, Scottish dancers, piping,PSNI display, bouncy castles andother playground attractions. Fromthe viewpoint of Masonry therewas a Masonic Display of jewels,magazines and other artefacts byRW Bro Robert Bashford and thedisplay of Garryowen Lodge 923Lodge regalia and pedestal andaltar falls.

Larne Masonic CentreSaturday 15th August 2015

MASONIC DAY

www.dgracantrim.org26 27The Banner

THE BANNER MAGAZINEBy G. W. McGrath

The editor has asked me towrite a short article abouthow The Banner came into

being so I will try to recall how ithappened. The District Grand Kingat the time (2001) was MostEcellent Companion Alan S. Watt,M.B.E., J.P. who had a publishing andprinting business called StyletypePrinting Ltd. He had printed amagazine for the Provincial GrandLodge of Antrim called The Gazetteand he felt that the District GrandRoyal Arch Chapter of Antrimcould have a magazine also and, asI was the District Assistant GrandRegistrar, he seemed to think thatthe job of editor could me addedto my list of duties (I later foundout that I was his second choice). Isaid I knew nothing aboutproducing a magazine but I thoughtthe idea of having a magazine was avery good one. We arranged tomeet in his office a few days laterand, after a lengthy discussion andseveral mugs of coffee I agreed togive it a shot. He eplained that theadvertisements (which his firmwould be responsible for getting)would pay for producing amagazine of thirty-two pages, eightcoloured and twenty-four blackand white with each etra eightcoloured pages costing £250. Hefelt that if we charged £1 for eachmagazine it would be a goodsource of income for District but Ifelt that profits should go to theBenevolent Institutions and he,after discussion, agreed to this.

My job would be to inform theregistrars about the intendedmagazine and ask them to send mearticles about events in theirChapter. M.E.Comp. Watt suggestedwe appoint co-ordinators indifferent Districts to encourageChapters in their area to producearticles. Together we picked a good

team. When the articles arrived all Ihad to do was to correct anyspelling or grammatical errors,which was an easy job for themajority were perfect. After I addedbits and pieces that I thought mightbe of interest in a District magazineI arranged to pay another visit tothe District Grand King’s office withthe package, which became issueNo. 1 of the District magazine Inamed ‘The Banner’, a name he fullyendorsed. The only thing he wantedwas to have a photograph he hadchosen to be on the front cover - itwas perfect for a first issue - theGrand King and the Immediate PastGrand King, 4 District Grand Kings,3 District Deputy Grand Kings and2 District Assistant Grand Kings.

After discussion we decided tohave 16 coloured pages so themagazine cost £250 and also tosend out to the Chapters, onemagazine for every four membersand hope that they would be ableto sell these. I was delighted that allChapters, with the eception of one,kept their quota and sold them.That Chapter returned theirbundle unopened with a noteeplaining it was unrequested mail!

The success of The Banner is

entirely due to the efforts ofmembers who take photographsand write reports or send in notesof events, which can be put togetherto make articles. There are and havebeen quite a few enthusiasticreporters and photographers whodeserve thanks and praise for theircontributions over the years but Iwill just mention two who haveecelled in their support of thismagazine. The late M.E.Comp. DrewCoid and the present DistrictAssistant Grand King, R.E.Comp. JimLynch, when visiting Chapters, seemto go armed with camera, notebook and pencil and havecontributed tremendously to thesuccess of The Banner.

After a few years I addedanother eight pages of colour andeventually went full colour so, inorder that the BenevolentInstitutions would continue toreceive a worthwhile donation, thecost of the magazine was increased- it’s still ecellent value!

Recently I have been lookingthrough old copies of The Bannerand also the Gazette and this hasmade me realise how worthwhileit is to produce this magazine eachyear - photographs and articlesbrought back to me many happymemories of companions nolonger with us. I know you can lookup old issues in the Internet, but tomy generation and me it’s not thesame. It’s a pity the Gazette is nolonger published - the old copiesare great. I think it would be a goodidea if Chapters kept copies of TheBanner, which have articlespertaining to their members, sothat in years to come members caneperience the pleasure I hadbrowsing through my old copies.

The Banner is presently in safehands and its future is secure.

BannerBanner

In this issue:• District Grand RAC Convocations• Companions Remembered• Chapter Reports from around the District• News and Profiles• Foundation of Provincial Grand Chapterand more...

THE

www.dgracantrim.org

MARCH 2016 • ISSUE 15

Journal of the

£2.00

Our friend Bobby wasawarded the BritishEmpire Medal in the

Queen's New Year' Honours, forservices to Lisburn Rugby FootballClub. A member for over 50 years,President in 1995-97, played rugbyuntil he was 50, and then took uprefereeing as a member of TheUlster Society of Rugby FootballReferees. Refereed until he was 64,and now goes out and assessreferees. Bobby started mini rugbyup at the Lisburn Rugby club withtwo other members in 1974, andnow over 200 young boys and girlsplay and train there every Saturdaymorning. During the rugby seasonthey go to other clubs, host clubsand each age group play oneanother. Over the years the p7group go on a tour to a some ofthe big clubs in England, and play inone of their tournaments. Bobby isa member of Lisburn Golf Club and

M.E. COMPANION ROBERTEARLY WATSON BEM

during the summer months assiststhe Juvenile Convenor with theteams and competitions, and is alsoon a Sports committee in LisburnCity Council which assists sportspeople in the area, with grants totravel to competitions outsideNorthern Ireland. A remarkableWor.Bro and Most E.Companionand I'm sure you would agree, as

very worthy of the Honourbestowed upon him. Bobby, his wifeand family attended HillsboroughCastle on the 30th April, where hewas presented with his BEM by theLord Lieutenant Mrs. Joan ChristieOBE, and in May, is attending aGarden Party at BuckinghamPalace where there will be 6000people attending.

On 15 October 2015 the DGK, BallymoneyBranch RNLI was presented with a bronzeservice badge by the Royal National LifeboatInstitute. On September 6th 2015, the Flag Day ofthe Branch they raised £1144.72 for the Institute.

PRESENTATION TO THEME DGK J McA POLLOCK

BY THE RNLI

T O T A L W A S T E M A N A G E M E N T*Industrial Services *Commercial Services*Packaged Waste Services *Commercial Waste Treatmentand Recycling *Hazardous Waste Treatment and Recycling*Non-Harzardous Waste Treatment Recycling and Recovery*Bespoke Treatment Services

www.irishwaste.net94-96 Hillsborough Road, Carryduff BT8 8HT.Tel: 028 9081 0000 Fax: 028 9081 0001Email: [email protected]

Please email articles for the Banner, togetherwith any accompanying photographs, to:

[email protected]


24th-26th April 2015

OBAN VISITATION

Before looking at the photoshave a glance at the variousChapters in the RAC

Province of Argyll and the Isles. On amap of Scotland you can see theetent of the Province from Oban toCampbeltown a distance of 112miles within which area there are 3Islands Bute, Islay and Arran andDunoon on the Cowal Penninsula.The etent of this RAC Provincemakes Ballycastle to Belfast look likea piece of cake 64 miles on goodroads. Concentrating on ourScottish Companions there arearticles on the Provincial GrandRoyal Arch Chapter of Kinross, onScottish Royal Arch Masonryconcluding with an Interesting LittleStory with a Scottish flavor also.

No. Name + Year Constituted/Meeting place Day/Month

158 ST. KIARAN 1874 1st WednesdayM.H., St. John's Street, Campbeltown 1,2,3,4,9,10,11,12

163 ST. BLANE 1875 2nd Mon / 2nd SatM.T., 3 Chapelhill Road, Rothesay, Isle of Bute 1,2,3,9,10,11,12

304 GALLEY OF LORN 1903M.H., Albany Street, Oban, Argyll

320 ISLAY 1905 3rd Tue / 3rd SatR.A.H., Main Street, Bowmore 1,2,3,4,9,10,11

496 COWAL 1921 1st TuesdayM.H., 145 Argyll Street, Dunoon, Argyll 1,2,3,4,5,9,10,11,12

565 ST. MARTIN 1923 2nd ThursdayM.H., Lochnell Street, Lochgilphead, Argyll 1,2,3,4,9,10,11,12

893 Arran St. Molios *M.H. Lamlash, Isle of Arran 5,6,8,9


At a meeting held in theMasonic Hall, Priory Lane,Dunfermline on June 21st

1919 the first Grand Supt. of theProvince of Fife and Kinross wasinstalled into office by the Earl ofCassillis, First Grand Principal forScotland and a deputation from theSupreme Grand Chapter of Scotland.

"The commission having beenread, the Provincial GrandSuperintendent Designate waspresented for Installation. TheProvincial Grand Superintendent,having been duly obligated andinvested with the insignia of hisoffice, was proclaimed and salutedby the companions present. TheFirst Grand Principal, the Earl ofCassillis, then addressed theCompanions and congratulated theProvince in having for its firstGrand Superintendent so eminentand enthusiastic a freemason asM.E.C. Lord Elgin." Etracted fromthe Minute of Provincial GrandChapter of 21.6.1919.

Whilst Lord Elgin’s reply tothese comments is not recordedone can imply from his serving inthat office for 41 years that he wasreasonably gratified.

The story of the foundation ofthe Provincial Grand Chapter ofFife and Kinross goes back furtherthan that however.

Eactly two days before theArmistice bringing the Great Warto an end a Conference ofPrincipals was held in theMasonic Hall, Cowdenbeath, underthe auspices of Union Royal ArchChapter, No. 295, to consider acircular from Supreme Royal ArchChapter of Scotland to nominate aGrand Superintendent for theproposed Provincial Grand RoyalArch Chapter. This informationfrom the Provincial Minute bookdoes not intimate any information

concerning the discussions thatmust have preceded this circularbut it is evidence in itself of a desireamongst Royal Arch Freemasons inFife to set up a regulatory bodyparticular to the Province. There isa reference in the minute to thepossibility of Josiah No. 10 and St.Michaels No. 31 detaching to jointhe Province of Angus and theMearns. However this threat to thefledgling Province was removedwhen St. Michael’s attended themeeting and Josiah, in its letter ofapology for non-attendanceindicated that it would abide by thedecision of the meeting.

The Chapters represented at thishistorical preparatory meeting wereSt. Michael’s No. 31, Rosslyn No. 261,Union No. 295, Minto No. 342,Prudence No. 343, Ore Valley No.412, St. Margaret’s Hope No. 418,and Constantia et Virtute No. 422.

This meeting chaired by M.E.C.Andrew Burt, M.E.Z. of Union No.295, and scribed by M.E.C. HughDouglas, M.E.Z. of Constantia etVirtute No. 422 resolvedunanimously to nominate the Rt.Hon. The Earl of Elgin andKincardine as Provincial GrandSuperintendent.

A second meeting of Principalstook place in Cowdenbeath on12th April 1919. This was chairedby Lord Elgin as Provincial GrandSuperintendent Designate, whoindicated that he would like theinstallation to take place in theChapter rooms of DunfermlineAbbey No. 36, his Mother Chapter.

At this meeting the firstProvincial Scribe E. was appointed

in the person of M.E.C. John R.Menzies, P.Z. St. Colme`s No. 105.

A committee was set up tomake the nominations for the otheroffice-bearers.

At this second meeting thefollowing Chapters wererepresented; St. Michael’s No. 31,Dunfermline Abbey No. 36,Kirkcaldy No. 97, St. Colme`s No.105, Rosslyn No. 261, Union No.295, Minto No. 342, Prudence No.343, Inverkeithing/Rosyth No. 371,Ore Valley No. 412, St. Margaret’sHope No. 418, Constantia etVirtute No. 422, and BuckhavenNo. 441. Dreel Castle was unableto attend but sent apologies. These14 Chapters could be said to bethe proto-province of Fife andKinross and it is evident that allstill play a significant role in the lifeof Provincial freemasonry today.

For those interested thecommittee recommended thefollowing Companions as the firstCommissioned Office-bearers forthe Province; The Rev. Robert Muir,Union No. 295, as Depute, P.G.2ndPrincipal James W. Carr, St. MichaelNo. 31 and P.G. 3rd Principal John C.Bolton, Dunfermline Abbey No. 36.

Lord Elgin went on to serve theProvince with distinction untilOctober 1961, an incredible 42years. Indeed it is ironic to note thathe survived his nominatedsuccessor who tragically was unableto assume office as he was called tothat Grand Chapter above onlydays before his installation,necessitating Lord Elgin to continuefor a further 8 months.

HISTORICAL NOTES ON THEFOUNDATION OF PROVINCIAL GRAND

CHAPTER OF FIFE AND KINROSSCompiled by M.E.C. K.H. Thomas, P.G. 3rd Principal

The Royal Arch degree is notnative to Scotland, but seemsto have been introduced

from both Irish and English sources,often Military Lodges, towards themiddle of the eighteenth century.The earliest reference to thedegree is at Stirling in 1743. TheseMilitary Lodges introduced manyother degrees beyond the Craft,and when the regiments moved on,Lodges in the vicinity sometimescontinued to work them. Thissituation continued until the end ofthe eighteenth century. However,the early Secret Societies Actscaused the Grand Lodge ofScotland, in 1800, to issue a warningto its Lodges against the working ofany degrees other than those ofEntered Apprentice, Fellow Craftand Master Mason.

Many Lodges heeded thewarning and the additional degrees

associated with Royal Arch orTemplar masonry had to beworked in assemblies separatefrom the Lodge. The feeling grewamongst the Brethren that theseassemblies should be legitimised insome way. A few obtained Chartersfrom the Grand Encampment ofIreland. Others petitioned theTemplar Grand Body in Englandand in 1810, under the patronageof the Duke of Kent, the RoyalGrand Conclave of Scotland waschartered and Aleander Deucharappointed its first Grand Master.

This Royal Grand Conclave wasempowered to grant Charters forthe conferring of the KnightTemplar grades upon thosequalified as Royal Arch Masons.Deuchar soon realised that it wasunsatisfactory to have first threedegrees and the Knight Templargrades under proper control but

not the intermediate, qualifying,degrees of the Royal Arch.

In 1815 he convened a specialcommittee, and all bodies inScotland known to be working theRoyal Arch degrees were contacted,with a view to forming a GrandBody to eercise proper control. Allthree Home Grand Lodges wereconsulted, so as not to infringe upontheir interests. Advice was sought, inparticular, from England where theUnited Grand Lodge of England hadrecently been formed, and wherethe status of the Royal Arch degreehad been acknowledged, as thecompletion of the third degree. TheEarl of Susse was supportive, andadvised Deuchar to make everyeffort to persuade the Grand Lodgeof Scotland to adopt a similarstance, and take the Royal Archunder its wing. However, after aninitially encouraging reply from theGrand Secretary of the GrandLodge of Scotland, the matterbecame inetricably bogged down inCommittee.

Eventually a meeting ofinterested Chapters could bedelayed no longer and, in August1817, representatives of 34Chapters met in Edinburgh and theSupreme Grand Royal ArchChapter of Scotland was erectedand consecrated. Charters wereissued, and the new Grand Bodygrew slowly but steadily, andgradually all bodies working theRoyal Arch degree in Scotland cameunder its control. At its peak, in the1960's, the Supreme Grand RoyalArch Chapter of Scotland hadsome 650 active Chapters, many ofwhich subsequently left to formSupreme Grand Royal ArchChapters of their own, as happenedfor eample in Israel and New SouthWales.

There are, currently, some 470active Chapters, 220 of which areoverseas.

SCOTTISH ROYALARCH MASONRY

An Interesting little story –Author unknownHis name was Fleming, and he was a poor Scottish farmer. One day,

while trying to make a living for his family, he heard a cry for help comingfrom a nearby bog. He dropped his tools and ran to the bog. There,mired to his waist in black muck, was a terrified boy, screaming andstruggling to free himself. Farmer Fleming saved the lad from what couldhave been a slow and terrifying death. The net day, a fancy carriage pulledup to the Scotsman's sparse surroundings. An elegantly dressednobleman stepped out and introduced himself as the father of the boyFarmer Fleming had saved. "I want to repay you," said the nobleman."You saved my son's life." "No, I can't accept payment for what I did," theScottish farmer replied, waving off the offer. At that moment, the farmer'sown son came to the door of the family hovel. "Is that your son?" thenobleman asked. "Yes," the farmer replied proudly. "I'll make you a deal.Let me take him and give him a good education. If the lad is anything likehis father, he'll grow to a man you can be proud of." And that he did. Intime, Farmer Fleming's son graduated from St.Mary's Hospital MedicalSchool in London, and went on to become known throughout the worldas the noted Sir Aleander Fleming, the discoverer of Penicillin. Yearsafterward, the nobleman's son was stricken with pneumonia. What savedhim? Penicillin. The name of the nobleman? Lord Randolph Churchill. Hisson's name? Sir Winston Churchill. Someone once said: What goesaround comes around. Work like you don't need the money. Love likeyou've never been hurt. Dance like nobody's watching.

FROM THE GRAND CHAPTER OF ROYALARCH MASONS OF NOVA SCOTIA

District Officersfor 2016

Editor: Bill Brown (313) 8 Donegall Crescent, Whitehead BT38 9LS Tel: 028 9337 8404Email: [email protected]

Chapters that meet in Freemasons’ Hall, ArthurSquare, send articles to:

Ale Ireland (Chapter 31), 22 Silverbirch Road,Bangor, BT19 6EU. Tel: 9146 3281

Chapters that meet in Crumlin Road and LigonielMasonic Halls, Belfast, send articles to:

Jim Patterson (Chapter 314), Tel: 9086 2214Chapters that meet in Newtownabbey and Whiteabbey Masonic Centre send articles to:

Bill Halliday (Chapter 763), 4 Carnhill Park,Newtownabbey, BT36 6LD. Tel: 9084 0112

Chapters that meet in Lisburn area send articles to: James McClurg (Chapter 140), 7 SycamoreRoad, Dundrod, Crumlin, BT29 4JE.Tel: 9082 5320

Chapters that meet in North Antim area sendarticles to:

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

Chapters that meet in Larne and Carrick area sendarticles to:

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

Chapters that meet in Ballymena and Antrim areasend articles to:

W. James Lynch, 15 Parkmount Crescent,Ballymena BT43 5HS. Tel: 2564 7644Email: [email protected]

District Grand King J McA. Pollock 57Dep. Grand King Thomas J. McCurley 613Asst. Grand King W. James Lynch 574/1020Grand High Priest Edwin Robert McComb 513Grand Chief Scribe Robert H. A. Wilson 775Grand Treasurer W. Ivan Conner 178Grand Registrar James H. McClurg 140Grand Chaplain William Halliday 667/763

Jonathan M. Smith 177Rev. Stephen Sherrin 537

Asst. Grand Treasurer Donald Minshull 427Asst. Grand Registrar Alan D. McLorie 317Grand Capt. of Aleander Henry 64the HostGrand Supt. Of John Jones 512the Tab.Grand Royal Arch David Samuel Girvin 565Capt.Capt. of the Scarlet Cecil Aleander Wright 169/834VeilCapt. of the Purple Alan James Foster 160VeilCapt. of the Blue Veil William Ivor McAllister 275/427Grand DoC William T. Brown M.B.E. 313

George M. Graham 431Ronald S. Barnes 56

Grand Steward David Gibson 602Joseph Raymond Kenny 450Joe McCullough 335John L. Edens 117

Grand Organist Dr. Norman Close 275Maurice McQuitty 149Neil Ritchie 180

G. C. Standard Bearer William Kieron Houston 175G. C. Sword Bearer John Johnston 704G. K’s Standard F. J. B. Murphy 17BearerGrand Janitor Tony Blair 726Grand Physician Dr James Clifford McMillan 51Grand InspectorJ. Michael Aleander, Allan Byers, David Devlin, MauriceDouglas, Clarence L. F. Gibson, David Henderson, ColinKirkpatrick, F. Lemon, R. L. Lindsay, Davis Little, SamuelG Matthews, H. Crawford Mitchell, David Openshaw,Colin Watt

BannerBannerTHE

Journal of the District Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Antrim

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DCG Publications Ltd. Tel: 028 9055 1811.

Email: [email protected] Tel: (028) 256 52639

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