Recruitment, Retention NEW MANANTRIM’S...passing of Brethren who had served Provincial Grand...

ANTRIM’SNEW MAN

R.W. Bro. John Dickson

Annual Report 2008R.W. Bro. J. S. Dunlop, P.G.M.

A Job Well DoneTribute to R.W. Bro. Noel Millar

Recruitment, Retentionand Retrieval

Sir George Clark Memorial Lodge 669

Bi-Centenary CelebrationsAntrim Masonic Lodge No. 56

GAZETTE 2009 32 GAZETTE 2009

IN THIS ISSUEIN THIS ISSUEAnnual Report 2008...................................................... 4Officers for Year 2009................................................... 5A Job Well Done............................................................ 6St. George’s Lodge No. 166 Centenary................... 8Andrew Henderson Masonic Lodge No. 512........ 9Eastern Gate Masonic Lodge No. 972..................... 9380 Years of Masonic Service Celebrated.............. 10Cheque Presented to Ulster Cancer Foundation... 1150 Year Member for St.Andrew’s Lodge 1012......... 11Olive Masonic Lodge 467 Installation Night............. 12Hiram Milestone................................................................. 12Recruitment,Retention and Retrieval......................... 13Celebrations at Crumlin Masonic Lodge No.140... 14Double Celebrations in Lodge No.21 ........................ 15Bro.David Kirk Honoured.............................................. 16Larne Open Day................................................................ 17Bi-Centenary Celebrations in Antrim.......................... 18St.George’s Lodge No.1016 Revisited...................... 21Some Thoughts for an Incoming WM......................... 22Oldstone True Blue Masonic Lodge No.56.............. 24Rathmoy Lodge No.591................................................. 25Celebrations at Belfast 651............................................ 26Installation of Officers at Harp and Crown................ 27The Long Run Down ....................................................... 28

DCG Publications. Tel: 028 9055 1811.

Front Cover: Newly installed Provincial Grand Masterof Antrim, RW Bro. John Dickson.

RW Bro. John Dickson was instaIled as PGM of Antrim atan occasional meeting of their RWPG Lodge of Antrimheld on Saturday 28th November 2009 at 12 noon.

The installing officer was The Grand Master MW Bro. GeorgeDunlop.

RW Bro. Dickson thanked the MW Grand Master for havingconfidence in appointing him as PGM of Antrim and gave acommitment he would give of his best in all his undertakings.

He paid tribute to the immediate PG Master RW Bro. JohnDunlop and thanked him for his leadership, commitment to ourprovince and to masonry in general during a time of difficulty.

He told RW Bro. John Dunlop that he was a man ofhonour and a true gentleman whom he held in the highestpossible respect.

RW Bro. Dickson thanked RW John on behalf of the brethrenof the province of Antrim and masonry in general and wishedhim a long and happy retirement to enjoy with his good wifeKay whom he knew was always at his side and wouldwelcome the opportunity to have him by her side more often.

To the brethren present he said he was honoured andprivileged to be installed as PGM of Antrim and that is waswith great humility that he undertook the task ahead.

To the brethren of his Craft Lodge, Oak Masonic Lodge No326 Ballinderry, he gave his sincere and grateful thanks foralways being there for him through the years and thankedthem all for their support down the years and for theirpresence today.

The PGM said that over the past few years he had thepleasure of serving PGL and Grand Lodge in several officeswith some of the most distinguished and honourablemembers of freemasonry of his time, men whose passion,commitment, and concern for the future touched his heart.

“I look forward to working with the great band of officers wehave at PGL of Antrim and at Grand Lodge” he said.

“Over the next period of time will require theirencouragement, support, friendship and guidance as we thePGL of Antrim steady our province and move forward and weknow that will be freely given.

“Brethren as your PGM what you see is what you get.”

“As I stand here before you as PGM of this Province I knowthat on my best day I can but only emulate those that thathave gone before me I can be only me.”

“I believe in the good things about our Brotherhood offreemasonry and believe that masonry does make adifference in our families, our society and in our community.

To the Brethren of Our Province I say I am not here to bethe Boss. But as an equal who with the support of all ourbrethren will lead us forward and onward.

I Do not have all the answers, nor the solutions to everyproblem we face internally and externally, (and they are many).

But it is my belief that when we work together in unitywe can make a difference.

I am so grateful to the many masons who have helpedand encouraged me over the years.

Brethren there are a number of issues to be addressed in thefuture to ensure that the Province can hold its head high.

That success will depend on each and every brotherengaging in the process which I hope to develop withyour help.”

VISION

Do I have a vision for PG L? Yes I do have.

My message today is simple.

PGL of Antrim is not lost. We have not been lost we have agreat foundation based on serving, spirit, leadership,character and charity.

We are part of the most honourable fraternal society offreemasons. We have great opportunities to move ahead.

Let us all be proud of our order.

We today commence a new beginning – our future is in frontof us and our aspirations are strong and bold.

The PGL will not be deterred from its vision.

Honesty, transparency will prevail in all our deliberations.

It is said that new brooms sweep clean. I will just say thatchange for changes sake will not happen, but change theirwill be, but only with the co-operation and agreement of ourmembership.

Today is not the time or place to announce or discuss change.

But I will bring forward and discuss and communicate myviews and thinking at another forum at a later date.

But I will convey to you that I wish to review all committees,and matters presently being dealt with and therefore informyou I wish to put all these matters on hold until a review iscarried out.

If each of us live up to the tenants of Masonry and every daymeasure ourselves against the lofty status that masonry representsthen we will all have a better understanding of the good of ourorder through our own actions and have a common goal.

The Provincial Grand Master said he was pleased RW Bro.Dennis Millen had agreed to serve as his deputy for anotheryear and that Provincial Assistant Grand Masters, RW Bros.W J Dyer and J O Dunlop would also remain in office.

He said RW Bro. J L Frazer had intimated he wished torelinquish his position as PAGM at the same time as RW Bro.J S Dunlop.

“RW Bro. Frazer has given long and valuable service toProvincial Grand Lodge in his various offices and has offeredto give his total support to us in the future.”

In conclusion he told the gathering, “Brethren there are noendings, only new beginnings.”

NEW PGMINSTALLED

Rt. W. Bro. Noel Millar being presented with a Sony DigitalCamera from the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Ian Millar (20thFebruary 2009) in recognition of his labours as a member ofMaine Valley representing the P. G. L. of A as P. Assist. GrandMaster for the past 10 years. The photograph shows Bro. DerekMillar, Senior Warden. Rt. W. Bro. Jack O. Dunlop, P. Assist. GrandMaster. W. Bro. Ian Millar, Wor. Master. Rt. W. Bro. Noel Millar, P.Assist. Grand Master. Bro. Richard Gillespie, Junior Warden.

MAINE VALLEY MASONICLODGE No. 492 CULLYBACKEY

A very proud father (20th February 2009): Bro. Derek Millar, SeniorWarden. Rt. W. Bro. Jack O. Dunlop, P. Assist. Grand Master. W.Bro. Ian Millar, Wor. Master. Rt. W. Bro. Noel Millar, P. Assist. GrandMaster. W. Bro. Alan Millar, Immediate Past Master. W. Bro. HughMillar (father), D. of C.

Newly Installed Worshipful Master of Maine Valley Masonic Lodgewas honoured by the presence of The Provincial Grand Master,21st March 2009. Photograph shows Bro. Alan Graham, Jun.Warden. Rt. W. Bro. John S. Dunlop, P. G. M. W. Bro. MauriceMcQuitty, Organist. W. Bro. Derek Millar, W. Master. Rt. W. Bro. NoelMillar, P. Assist. Gr. Master. Bro. Richard Gillespie, Sen. Warden.


The year 2008 has been a very sad year for Provincial GrandLodge of Antrim with the sudden passing of R.W. Bro. AdamJames McKinley our immediate Past Provincial Grand Master onthe 19th June 2008. It was a particular shock to me as I hadvisited him the evening before and was informed the followingafternoon that he had passed away. The attendance at theMemorial Service on Sunday afternoon demonstrated the veryhigh regard in which he was held not only within Provincial GrandLodge of Antrim and the many organisations ff which he was amember but much further afield. I was honoured to have servedas his Deputy and we had an excellent working relationship. Amemorial service was held at our September Communication ofProvincial Grand Lodge where I read a tribute in memory andappreciation of the late Right Worshipful Brother Adam JamesMcKinley. He will be remembered for his leadership over the fouryears in which he was Provincial Grand Master.

It is often quoted that our organisation is an ageing organisationand this has been evident over the past year within our Provincewhen the Senior Officers have presented 24 fifty-, sixty- andseventy-year Jewels and Bars. In one Lodge in particular, twosixty year Bars and four fifty year Jewels were presented at theone Communication. Unfortunately, three of our very seniorBrethren were unable to attend their Lodge to receive theirjewels, something we hope to rectify by visiting their homes andpresenting them with their well earned jewels in recognition oftheir long service to our Order.

The first major event of the year was as usual the Installation,Investment and re-Investment of our Officers for 2008. This wasfollowed, as usual, by our lunch at which the ladies joined us.

The September Communication was held in the Lisburn MasonicHall at which V.W. Bro. Ivan Gillespie was Invested as ourProvincial Assistant Grand Secretary. We have been without anAssistant Secretary since the resignation of W. Bro. Boyd andV.W. Bro. Ivan had offered to help out in the office if required, agesture very much appreciated. His skill was very evident andwhen approached if he would undertake the office of ProvincialAssistant Secretary he very kindly agreed. He is proving to be amost competent and capable Assistant Secretary and we wishhim well in that office.

The future of the Provincial Masonic Hall still remains a majorconsideration. At the Board of General Purposes in May 2008the main item on the agenda was a decision regarding the saleof the Provincial Masonic Hall, 15 Rosemary Street, Belfast, tobe presented by the Property Advisory Committee, however, acounter proposal was presented and the Brethren decided tosuspend any decision until both proposals were developedfurther. This is ongoing at present.

It was my sad duty at each Communication to refer to thepassing of Brethren who had served Provincial Grand lodge.

V.W. Bro. Chas. Meyban, Lodge No. 175 – Past Provincial JuniorGrand Deacon 1989; Past Provincial Grand Director ofCeremonies 1991-2000. Died: 24/12/2007.

W. Bro. J. T. Chambers, Lodge No. 162 – Past Provincial SeniorGrand Deacon 2004. Died: 07/01/2008.

W. Bro. Derek Jones, Lodge No. 798 and Lodge No. 814 – PastProvincial Grand Inspector 1997-2007. Died: 13/3/2008.

W. Bro. Norman Greer White, Lodge No. 783 – Honorary pastProvincial Grand Steward 1990. Died: 03/04/2008.

ANNUALREPORT 2008

V.W. Bro. Rev. Denzil Caldwell, Lodge No. 375 – Past ProvincialGrand Chaplin 1982. Died: 05/04/2008.

W. Bro. Raymond Magill, Lodge No. 166 – Past Provincial GrandSteward 2001. Died: 01/05/2008.

W. Bro. Noel Todd, Lodge No. 492 – Past Provincial SeniorGrand Deacon 1982. Died: 08/05/2008.

W. Bro. Stanley Graham, Lodge No. 783 – Past Provincial JuniorGrand Deacon 1998. Died: 14/06/2008.

W. Bro. Richard Reid, Lodge No. 539 – Past Provincial GrandStandard Bearer 1982. Died: 26/06/2008.

R.W. Bro. Harold Ross, Lodge No. 820 – Past Provincial SeniorGrand Warden 1968; Past Foreign Grand Rep. to State of Israel.Died: 02/08/2008.

W. Bro. John H. Frazer, Lodge No. 651 – Past Provincial GrandLodge Standard Bearer 2003. Died: 17/09/2008.

I cannot praise my fellow Cabinet members enough for theirdiligence in their separate responsibilities and unstinting supportand advice to me over the year. R.W. Bro. Dennis MiIlen forchairing numerous meetings for me, for his support and hisendless work for our Charities.

R.W. Bro. Noel Millar whose main responsibility is for ourProvincial Inspectors. He has also undertaken the mammothtask of updating our By-Laws with several Senior Officers andBrethren. Unfortunately, the ten-year rule has caught up withR.W. Bro. Millar and he is due to retire in February 2009,however, I have asked him to continue in Office until his presentundertakings are complete and he has willingly agreed. R.W.Bro. Noel will be missed by us all and we will miss his ‘banter’. Iwill have the opportunity to thank R.W. Bro. Noel for hisdiligence and support at a later date.

R.W. Bro. Bill Dyer has been most supportive in providing mewith information which I require from time to time. R.W. Bro.Dyer very kindly undertook to head up the survey team forAntrim in the recent Membership Analysis survey being carriedby the Provincial Grand Lodges of Antrim and Down. The

by R.W.Bro. J. S. Dunlop, P.G.M.

purpose of the survey is to investigateand report to Grand Lodge theirfindings into the closure of Lodges anddrop in membership within the InnerBelfast area. R.W. Bro. Bill has spentendless hours, together with thecolleagues from Down, in preparingand distributing the enquiries to theLodges. The Grand Master has giventhis survey his wholehearted support.

R.W. Bro. John L Frazer is a man of manyparts. R.W. Bro. Frazer is always willing tostep into the breach when needed. Aschairman of the Property AdvisoryCommittee he and his Committee carryout extensive investigations into a verycomplex subject.

R.W. Bro. Jack Dunlop is chairman ofthe Education Committee and is alsoresponsible for the library and Museumand producing the Provincial Gazette.

V.W. Bro. John Dickson, as ourRegistrar, has had a busy year guidingus through the many complex subjectsthat have risen throughout the year.Great demand has been made on histime in providing information for theinvestigations into the future of theProvincial Masonic Hall.

Our treasurer, V.W. Bro. StanleyMurphy, has used his wizardry againthis year in reducing our dues whichpleases all concerned. He is alsocarrying out extensive negotiations withCustoms and Excise in, hopefully,reclaiming VAT. As mentioned earlier inmy report V.W. Bro. Ivan GiIlespie, ourProvincial Assistant Grand Secretary, iscarrying out his duties in a mostcompetent manner and we are gratefulfor his dedication in what has been avery demanding year for him.

W. Bro. Bill McClenaghan is what couldbe described as a general ‘dogs body’around our Hall not only as AssistantTreasurer he also assists in the officewith District Grand Royal Arch Chapterbusiness.

The office is headed up by MrsRosemary Fuller, ably assisted by MissJoanne McKay. Rosemary in her shorttime as Office Secretary has gonethrough a very steep learning curveand we are most grateful for her helpand co-operation.

The Grand Master’s Festival is nearinga close and I express my sincerethanks to all the Lodges and Brethrenfor their enthusiasm in raising funds inmany and varied ways for the threeworthy Charities. W. Bro. DavidPenpraze and his committee are to becongratulated on an outstandinglysuccessful Grand Master’s Gala Dinnerheld in the Tullyglass Hotel, Ballymenaon 7th November 2008 when some 425Brethren and friends attended raisingthe magnificent sum £14,000.

On behalf of my Senior officers I wishto express my sincere thanks to theLodges for their support throughout theyear and for the very warm welcomes,friendship and hospitality extended tous on our visits.

I am most grateful to the Grand LodgeSecretary and staff for their continuedsupport and advice during the year.

GAZETTE 2008 5GAZETTE 2008 5

W.Bro. J. AdairW.Bro. J. BeggsW.Bro. R. C. BonarW.Bro. C. CaldwellW.Bro. W. CameronW.Bro. F. CarlisleW.Bro. T. F. ClydeW.Bro. J. CrawfordW.Bro. R. Cromie

W.Bro. T. D. FultonW.Bro. L. FullertonW.Bro. R. FullertonW.Bro. J. H. GraingerW.Bro. R. HeaneyW.Bro. M. HendersonW.Bro. C. HolmesW.Bro. J. LuttonW.Bro. P. McDonald

W.Bro. R. MaguireW.Bro. R. I. MairsW.Bro. R. MarkW.Bro. M. MorrisonW.Bro. T. J. MortonW.Bro. J. NesbittW.Bro. W. NimickW.Bro. D. OpenshawW.Bro. J. Reynolds

W.Bro. M. RobinsonW.Bro. R. F. RobinsonW.Bro. N. B. SmythW.Bro. R. SmythW.Bro. W. R. WhitesideW.Bro. B. S. WhittenW.Bro. A. Wright

R.W. Bro. J. S. DunlopV.W.Bro. A. Askin

R.W. Bro. D. R. Millen R.W.Bro. J. N. Millar R.W.Bro. J. L. Frazer

V.W.Bro. E. M. Ferguson W.Bro. S. H. Letters V.W.Bro. J. Caddoo W.Bro. R. Spiers

W.Bro. J. B. BennettW.Bro. R. BoothV.W.Bro. J. Caddoo

R.W.Bro. W. J. DyerW.Bro. R. McConnellW.Bro. J. McCullough

W.Bro. G. McFetridgeW.Bro. W.E. MooreW.Bro. R. Spiers

W.Bro. E.R. McLaughlin, F.C.A. W.Bro. D. McClean, F.C.A.

R.W. Bro. J. S. Dunlop Provincial Grand MasterR.W. Bro. D. R. Millen Provincial Deputy Grand MasterR.W. Bro. J. N. Millar Provincial Assistant Grand MasterR.W. Bro. W. J. Dyer Provincial Assistant Grand MasterR.W. Bro. J. L. Fraser Provincial Assistant Grand MasterR.W. Bro. J. O. Dunlop Provincial Assistant Grand MasterV.W. Bro. A. Henry Provincial Senior Grand WardenV.W. Bro. G. McIlwaine Provincial Junior Grand WardenV.W. Bro. S.W. Murphy Provincial Grand TreasurerV.W. Bro. J. Dickson Provincial Grand RegistrarV.W. Bro. A. Askin Provincial Grand SecretaryV.W. Bro. R. J. McDowell Provincial Grand Director of CeremoniesV.W. Bro. J. McFarland Provincial Grand Director of CeremoniesV.W. Bro. S. Brennan Provincial Grand Director of CeremoniesV.W. Bro. D. Henderson Provincial Grand Director of CeremoniesV.W. Bro. J. H. McClurg Provincial Grand ChaplainV.W. Bro. D. Dunn Provincial Grand Chaplain

W. Bro. R. Lamont Provincial Senior Grand DeaconW. Bro. W. A. Higgins Provincial Junior Grand Deacon

Vacant Provincial Grand Superintendent of WorksW. Bro. W. R. T. McClenaghan Provincial Assistant Grand Treasurer

Vacant Provincial Assistant Grand SecretaryW. Bro. R. Millen Provincial Grand StewardW. Bro. M. Ross Provincial Grand StewardW. Bro. J. Foster Provincial Grand StewardW. Bro. K. Beggs Provincial Grand StewardW. Bro. A. G. Hunter Provincial Grand StewardW. Bro. T. Abernethy Provincial Grand StewardW. Bro. K. Bennet Provincial Grand StewardW. Bro. G. Rodgers Provincial Grand StewardW. Bro. T. Smyth Provincial Grand StewardW. Bro. S. Porter Provincial Grand StewardW. Bro. D. Martin Provincial Grand StewardW. Bro. W. Letson Provincial Grand Sword BearerW. Bro. J. M. Gaston Provincial Grand Sword BearerW. Bro. L. C. Clark Provincial Grand Steward of CharitiesW. Bro. M. Bresland Provincial Grand Steward of CharitiesW. Bro. D. A. Wright Provincial Grand Steward of CharitiesW. Bro. R. T. Wright Provincial Grand Steward of CharitiesW. Bro. W. T. H. Balmer Provincial Grand AlmonerW. Bro. N. McElwee, T.D. Provincial Grand AlmonerW. Bro. D. Lyness Provincial Grand AlmonerW. Bro. N. Carmichael Provincial Grand OrganistW. Bro. Dr. N. J. Close Provincial Grand OrganistW. Bro. C. Bonnes Provincial Grand Lodge Standard BearerW. Bro. S. Nicholson Provincial Grand Lodge Standard BearerW. Bro. A. Irwin Provincial Grand Master’s Standard BearerW. Bro. J. Peters Provincial Grand Inner GuardW. Bro. Dr. D. J. L. Carson, OBE Provincial Grand PhysicianW. Bro. Dr. R. E. Henderson Provincial Grand PhysicianW. Bro. R. Bashford Provincial Grand LibrarianW. Bro. G. Gillam Provincial Assistant Grand LibrarianW. Bro. I. McElfatrick Hon. Past Provincial Grand Steward

OFFICERS FOR YEAR 2009PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE OF ANTRIM

PROVINCIAL GRAND INSPECTORS

REPRESENTATIVES OF P.G.L. AT GRAND LODGE BOARD OF GENERAL PURPOSES

REPRESENTATIVES OF P.G.L. AT GRAND LODGE OF INSTRUCTION

PROVINCIAL INSTRUCTORS

AUDITORS OF PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE ACCOUNTS

6 GAZETTE 2009

R.W.Bro. Jack Noel Eric Armstrong Millar was installed byR.W.Bro. Robert Thomson the then P.G.M. of Antrim at thestated Communication of P.G.L. in February 1999 as P.A.G.M.

R.W.Bro. Millar was at that time Secretary of the North AntrimCommittee of Inspection and had been for 10 years havingpreviously served as Lodge Representative to the Committee forsome 10 years and within this period he held the office ofChairman in l991.

During his term as P.A.G.M. he attended the N.A.C.O.I. on aregular basis. What a wonderful record of service to theinspection Committee.

R.W.Bro. Thomson saw the capabilities and efficiency ofR.W.Bro. Millar and thought him worthy of the vacant office ofP.A.G.M., an office he went on to serve for ten years and twomonths with great enthusiasm and dignity making his totalservice to the N.A.C.O.I. and P.G.L. almost 30 years.

Throughout this period he served Grand Lodge in the capacityas Senior Grand Deacon and P.G.L. Standard Bearer.

During his term as Secretary of the C.O.l. R.W.Bro. Millar sawthe North Antrim Committee of inspection brought into line withthe Belfast Committee of Inspection in the election of OfficeBearers for the ensuing year.

It was ruled that the election of officers for the North Antrim areashould be elected by the Representatives to the Board ofGeneral Purposes within the North Antrim area and so inkeeping with the Belfast Committee.

When appointed as P.A.G.M. his duties were in charge of theProvincial Grand Inspectors in interviewing and recommendingreplacements for vacancies within the Inspectorate. R.W.Bro. Noelalways made himself available to the Inspectors to answer theirqueries. His analysis of the returns of the Inspectors were mostinformative in the state of the Lodges within P.G.L. This Brethrenwas no small task and I would suggest took up many hours inpreparing and we are most grateful to R.W.Bro. Noel for that.

These past months has involved R.W.Bro. Noel in updating ourBy-Laws and I am sure you are aware this was no small task;again many thanks. This perhaps explains why I asked R.W.Bro.Noel to stay on a further two months over his ten year term soas to complete the approval of the By-Laws. l am grateful to himfor so readily agreeing to do this.

It is very appropriate that this Communication is being held inBallymena, his own home town and being hosted by his Lodge.

In closing this tribute I on my own behalf and that of P.G.L. andall the Brethren express our sincere good wishes to R.W.Bro.Noel a very happy retirement from the office of P.A.G.M.

We all wish R.W.Bro. Noel and his wife Margaret good healthand happiness to enjoy their future together and I would suggesteither Margaret will enjoy his company now or be frustrated outof her mind having him around her feet all the time!

We look forward to R.W.Bro. Noel’s support and attendance atour Communications as often as he can in the future.

Brethren I would ask you to rise and show your grateful thanksto him for his service over the years.

Response by R.W.Bro. MillarR.W.Bro. Millar in thanking the R.W. Provincial Grand Master, foraffording him the opportunity to address the meeting said:

I have come to the end of my allotted time as a ProvincialAssistant Grand Master and the first thing I want to say is that ithas been an honour and a privilege to serve in that office and ithas certainly also been a pleasure, under your leadership. I havethoroughly enjoyed these ten years and so it is with mixedfeelings that I contemplate retirement.

During the term of Office I have kept reasonably good records ofmy various Lodge visits and according to my reckoning I havemade just over 190 visits to 65 different Lodges.

I have to say Provincial Grand Master that in the true spirit ofFreemasonry I was always made to feel welcome and receivedthe utmost courtesy and respect on those visits, even on thefairly rare occasions when I was there to try to resolve somedifficulty within the Lodge. I met a great number of Brethren andmade many good friends. I wish to express my sincere thanks toall those Brethren as they turned what could merely have been aduty into an enjoyable experience.

Apart from the North Antrim Committee of Inspection there isanother body of Brethren with whom I have had a very closeworking relationship, namely the Provincial Grand Inspectors.These Brethren do a tremendous job for this Province and Imust thank them not only for the work that they carry out soconscientiously, but also for the co-operation, respect andfriendship that they have given me. Brethren my sincere thanks.

I could go on at great length about the virtues of my colleaguesin the Cabinet, however, l am conscious of the time and I knowthat I will have the opportunity to address them on anotheroccasion. However Provincial Grand Master, I must say at thispoint how much I regret the fact that my very good friend andcolleague the late R.W.Bro. Jim Stark is not with us today. Hiswise counsel and sharp wit are greatly missed. Unfortunatelyalso missing this evening due to illness is my good friend andcolleague R.W.Bro. Jack Dunlop.

A Job Well Done

The P.G.M. paid strong tribute to the work of R.W.Bro. Noel Millar who has retired after over 10 yearsas P.A.G.M. at the P.G.L. Communication on 20th April 2009.

What I would say to you Brethren, is that all of your SeniorOfficers work very hard for the good of this Province and in myopinion they certainly do not deserve the criticisms that have beenlevelled at them in recent years. Consequently Brethren I appealto you to get behind your Officers and give them your full support.

Brethren I have been fortunate to serve as a Provincial AssistantGrand Master under three Provincial Grand Masters, firstly;R.W.Bro. Robert Thomson who appointed me to the post andinvested me in February 1999. R.W.Bro. Thomson was largelymy guide and Mentor when I became Secretary of the thenBallymena Committee of Inspection. He is an excellent Mason, Iregard him as a true friend and I am grateful for the faith heplaced in me when he made that appointment.

Then there was the late R.W.Bro. Adam McKinley, who decidedto keep me on even though he often took me to task in publicwith regard to my smoking habit and was delighted when Istopped. I had known Adam since 1955 when I was one of hisstudents as an apprentice fitter so it was particularly pleasing tobe one of his assistants.

Finally, Provincial Grand Master there is yourself. You again didme the honour of retaining me as one of your assistants and forthat I give you my sincere thanks. Ballymena has often been thehalfway point to many of your destinations and consequently wehave shared many a journey to and from meetings. As a resultwe have built up a close working relationship but perhaps moreimportantly I believe that we have developed a strong bond offriendship. I have also come to understand the depth of yoursincerity and integrity, an integrity that makes nonsense of thecriticisms that you have been subjected to for some time.

GAZETTE 2009 7

Provincial Grand Master, although no longer a member of yourcabinet, I can assure you of my continued and unwavering support.

Brethren having worked closely with three of them, I can assureyou that in the Province of Antrim we have been extremelyfortunate regarding the quality of our Provincial Grand Masters.

R.W. Provincial Grand Master, in the proper manner, I now returnto you and Provincial Grand Lodge of Antrim, my Chain of Office.


Choral Evensong – St. George’s Church, Belfast

On Sunday the 19th October 2008, the Brethren of SaintGeorge's Lodge and their guests celebrated the LodgeCentenary with a Coral Evensong in the magnificentsurroundings of St George's Parish Church, on High Street inBelfast. This building, an architectural gem, that is virtuallyunknown to the general public, contains the memorial window(The Good Samaritan) to the memory of Sir Robert Baird, pastowner of The Belfast Telegraph, and for many years at the startof the 20th century, Treasurer of The Grand Lodge of Ireland. No

Centenary Celebrations of Saint George’s Lodge No. 166

finer memorial could have been found, as Sir Robert was agenerous benefactor to both Masonic and non-Masonic charities.

The Officiant, the Rev'd Terence Dunlop had the added pleasureof his father, The Most Wor The Grand Master, Most Wor BroGeorge Dunlop reading the first lesson. Wor Bro J.CraigP.P.G.S.B. read the second lesson and a very thought provokingand apt sermon was given by Rt Wor The Rt Rev'd Dr Samuel G.Poyntz Past Senior Grand Chaplin of The Grand Lodge of Ireland.

Interestingly, the Lodge was actually founded by a number ofBrethren associated with St George's Church and the first WorMaster, The Rev'd Hugh Davis Murphy M.A., D.D. was thethen Church Rector. The current rood screen bearing thePascal Lamb in a place of honour, was erected to the memoryof the Rev'd Murphy. Amongst the other Founder Members wefind a Dentist, a Grain Merchant, a Head Constable and aRetired Sergeant Pensioner from the RIC, 3 CommercialTravellers, a Solicitor and a Taylor. Amongst the principalguests, the Provincial Grand Lodge of Antrim was wellrepresented by its six principal Officers and the Lodge ofResearch was also well represented.

St George's Lodge has produced a very fine illuminated scrollbased on the service of Choral Evensong dated Sunday the 19thOctober 2008 at 3.30pm and containing the signatures of all thekey Church participants, Lodge Members and Masonic Guestspresent on the day. They plan to get the scroll framed anddisplayed in Arthur Square. To mark the occasion the Brethren ofSt George's Lodge No 166 presented a cheque in the sum of£166.00 to the Church funds and Wor Bro Ronnie Wilson,chairman of the Arthur Square Masonic Hall Company donated afurther £1,070.00 to Church funds on behalf of the other MasonicLodges that meet in the newly refurbished Arthur Square building.

Doagh Union MasonicLodge No. 317

RW Bro. John Dickson, Prov. Grand Registrar, presentedW.Bro. Billy Todd with his 50 year Jewel and Certificate atthe St. Patrick’s Day communication of Doagh UnionMasonic Lodge No. 317. Also pictured is the W. Master ofthe Lodge, W. Bro. Jim Mawhinney.

At a stated communication of Andrew Henderson Lodge No. 512on 24th February 2009 Rt. Wor. Bro. John L. Frazer, Prov.Assistant Grand Master of Antrim presented 50 year Jewels totwo distinguished members of the Lodge.

W.Bro. William Gamble

Initiated into Lodge 512 on 27/01/1959 – Passed 24/03/1959 –Raised 05/05/1959 W.Bro. Gamble was W. Master of Lodge 512for the year 1972. He has been a Stalwart member of the Lodgefrom his Initiation and has rarely missed a meeting. He is anactive supporter of Masonic Charities.

W.Bro. William Webb

Initiated into Lodge 512 on 24/02/1959 – Passed 24/03/1959 –Raised 05/05/1959 W.Bro Webb was W.Master of Lodge 512 forthe year 1970.

W.Bro Webb is a past Pro. Grand Master's of Antrim StandardBearer.

For many years W.Bro. Webb was a class leader at WhiteabbeyClass of Instruction.

This W.Bro takes an active interest in the ritual of the Lodge &readily gives advice and guidance to the younger members ofthe Lodge. He is an active supporter of Masonic Charities.

Following the Lodge meeting all the Brethren enjoyed a FestiveBoard at which W.Bros Gamble and Webb cut a celebratory50yr cake.

J. R. (Jack) Adair MBE, Secretary Lodge 512

50 Year Jewelspresented at AndrewHenderson MasonicLodge No. 512

W.Bro. Webb and W.Bro. Gamble cut the 50 year cake.

R.W.Bro. Frazer, PAGM Antrim; W.Bro. Webb; W.Bro. Gambleand W.Bro. McMath, WM 512.

Eastern Gate Masonic Lodge No. 972

Members of Eastern Gate Masonic Lodge No. 972 who gathered in CrumlinMasonic Hall to present a Diamond Jubilee Certificate to W. Bro. GrahamHarper, a founder member of their Lodge. Bro. Harper’s daughters Ann andLouise also attended the event.

W. Bro. John Dunlop, Provincial Grand Master,Provincial Grand Lodge of Ireland, presenting aDiamond Jubilee Certificate to W. Bro. GrahamHarper. Also pictured at the presentation, whichtook place in Crumlin Masonic Hall, were W. Bro.Crawford Batchelor, WM, W. Bro. David Martin,Secretary and Provincial Officer W. Bro. JohnDickson. Photographs by Pat McGuiganPhotography, Randalstown.


Rashee Temperance Masonic Lodge 736 celebrated a uniqueoccasion at their meeting on the 20th October at Corgy Masonichall. Long-service jewels and certificates were presented to sixbrethren. Rt.W.Bro. Hugh Taggart, W.Bro. Richmond McKaywere each presented with their 60 year jewel and bar and theirDiamond Jubilee Certificate. A third Diamond Jubilee recipient,Bro. Andrew Thompson was unfortunately unable to attend.These three brethren also have the distinction of beingFounding Members of the Lodge which was warranted on the29th August 1949.

W.Bros. David Leckey, and David Montgomery and Bros. RobertCampbell and Norman Turkington were presented with their fiftyyear jewels and Golden Certificates.

In all, over 380 years of Masonic service was represented by theDiamond and Golden Jubilee recipients.

The Lodge was honoured at this special communication by theattendance of the following distinguished brethren; Rt.W.Bro.Leslie Johnston, the Assistant Grand Master, Rt.W.Bro. JohnDunlop, the Provincial Grand Master, Rt.W.Bro. William Dyer,and Rt.W.Bro. Jack Dunlop, Provincial Assistant Grand Masters.

The honours of presentation were shared between the AssistantGrand Master and the Provincial Grand Master with Rt.W.Bro.Johnston presenting the jubilee certificates and Rt.W.Bro.Dunlop presenting the jewels.

On a sadder note Bro. Turkington tragically died just over twoweeks after this photograph was taken.

Rashee Temperance 736 Celebratesover 380 Years of Masonic Service bySeven of its Brethren

Left to right back row: Rt.W.Bro Dyer, PAGM; Rt.W.Bro. Johnston, AGM; W.Bro. Ainsley Steele WM; Rt.W.Bro. Dunlop, PGM; Rt.W.Bro.Dunlop, PAGM. Left to right front row: Rt.W.Bro. Hugh Taggart, PPGSoW, PGL Rep. to GL Oregon, W.Bro. Andrew McKay, W.Bro.David Montgomery, Bro. Robert Campbell, W.Bro. David Leckey, Bro. Norman Turkington.

W Bro James Kissock of Doagh Union 317 wasaccompanied by 25 brethren to Molesworth Street where hewas presented with his 50 year jewel and certificate by R WBro J O Dunlop PAGM.

W Bro Kissock thanked the Lodge and said he was veryhonoured and pleased to receive his jewel which he woudwear with pride.

50 NOT OUT

W Bo Derek Cooper, R W Bro J O Dunlop PAGM,W Bro James Kissock.

On the 9th April 2008 the W. Master, Officers and Brethren ofBroomhedge Star of the North Masonic Lodge No. 335 met attheir hall in Broomhedge, and in attendance was Ms. PatriciaLiesching who was representing the Ulster Cancer Foundation.

A cheque for £547 was presented to Ms Liesching by theImmediate Past Master, W. Bro. J J McCullough (Sen). on behalfof the Lodge.

In thanking the members for their kind and welcome donation,Ms Liesching gave a brief and very comprehensive summary ofthe workings of the Ulster Cancer Foundation.

Pictured from left to right are W. Bro. Robert Englefield, W.Master, MS Patricia Liesching, W. Bro. Tony Parkinson, Treasurerand W. Bro. Joseph J McCullough, Immediate Past Master.

A FINE EFFORTBROOMHEDGE MASONIC LODGE No. 335

Masons in East Antrim handed over money collected for aSponsored Walk, donations and Road Side collections to theGrand Master in person in aid of his Festival.

He received presentations from Redhall 260 £3500.00,Prince of Wales Own 154 £1000.00, Islandmagee 162£500.00 and a further sum from Latharna 375 which broughtthe total to over £5000.00.

The Grand Master Most W/B George Dunlop, accompaniedby the Provincial Assistant Grand Master Rt.Wor.Bro. John LFrazer, escorted by W/B W T Scott, joined the Brethren of theLodges and their guests for an Emergency Communication ofPrince Of Wales (Own) 154, with W/B Mervyn Robinson inthe chair. Other Masters present were W/B Michael Lynch260, W/B Norman Brown 162, W/B Roy Bolton 375, W/BJohn Peoples 215, W/B James Black 216. Presented to theGrand Master were three experienced Brethren who sharealmost 180 years in Masonry, W/B Crawford Adair 260, W/BJim Haughey 154 and the “evergreen” W/B William Norris162 Chairman of the Committee of Inspection.

The Grand Master congratulated each for what they havegiven to Masonry and wished them many more years goodhealth to maintain their fine example.

Everyone was invited to the Festive Board downstairsbringing the evening to a very successful and peaceful close.

All present were honoured to have spent the evening in thedistinguished company of the Grand Master and his graciousassistant.

W. Bro. Bryan Q. Baxter of St Andrews Lodge 1012 had anight to remember when he was presented with his 50 yearJewel and Certificate by W. Bro. David Lawson acting onbehalf of the Worshipful Master W. Bro Ross Ewart.

W. Bro Baxter joined Freemasonry in 1958 and was initiated intoLodge 277 in Cookstown, Co Tyrone.

He then affiliated to Lodge 470 Irvinestown in 1969/70 and toLodge 1012 Carrickfergus in 1972 where he was WorshipfulMaster in 1984.

He has also served the Lodge as Treasurer/Secretary, LodgeRepresentative to both PGL Inspection Committee and PGLBoard of Purposes, and is still in office as Lodge Auditor.

50 Year Member

Grand Masters Festivalreceives a welcome Boost

in East Antrim

Rt Wor Bro John Dunlop, Provincial Grand Master of Antrim visitedCogry Masonic Hall on the evening of the 20th October 2008 to presentthree number 50 year jewels and three number 60 year scrolls,representing some three hundred and thirty years of Masonicendeavour for the Brethren concerned. You may be interested to learnthat Rt Wor Bro Dunlop's Mother Lodge is Ballymoney No. 330.

A CURIOUS COINCIDENCE

Remember Brethren, the annualpublication of the Gazette is onlypossible with your help. Soplease keep sending all essentialeditorial material/pictures relatingto anniversaries, 50 year jewelcelebrations, etc.

Send all material to Michael Drake,Editor, Quoniamstown 36,Downpatrick.Tel: 028 4461 3174 orEmail:[email protected] you can send materialto Provincial Headquarters, 15Rosemary Street, Belfast BT11QA.

Michael Drake

12 GAZETTE 2009

The Provincial Assistant Grand Master, Rt. Wor. Bro. J. O. Dunlop,congratulates the newly installed WM of 467, Wor. Bro. S. Rodney.

Olive Masonic Lodge 467 held their annual installation onSaturday 9th February 2008 in the Masonic Hall in Doagh.

There was a very good turn out of visitors and the Lodge wasalso honoured to have, in attendance, the Provincial AssistantGrand Master, Rt. Wor. Bro. JO Dunlop.

The P.A.G.M. was conducted to the dais, where he received avery hearty welcome, accepted the maul and was saluted. Aftersigning the minutes, he congratulated the Secretary Wor Bro RBDunlop for his diligence in managing the Lodge.

The outgoing W.M. Wor Bro H Robinson thanked the brethren ofthe Lodge for the privilege it had been for him to be WM. Hethen proceeded to install his successor, Wor Bro S Rodney in avery competent and relaxed manner. This was Wor BroRodney’s second time in the chair, the first time being in 1968.Wor Bro Rodney then installed his officers in an exemplarymanner, without notes of any kind and the brethren respondedby giving him a standing ovation. (Not bad for an 84 year old!)

The lodge was then closed and the brethren made their way toMcConnell’s of Doagh where an excellent meal was enjoyed by all.

OLIVE MASONIC LODGE 467INSTALLATION NIGHT

Hiram’s Ancient Band Lodge No. 103 has alarge number of long standing members whohave reached their 50th year in Freemasonaryand the latest member to achieve this milestoneis AImoner W. Bro. David Patterson.

The Lodge was delighted to welcome R.W.Bro.John Frazer Provincial Assistant Grand Master andlately Provincial Grand Secretary to the ProvincialGrand Lodge of Antrim to our communication.

When the business of the Lodge was concludedand the Lodge closed, Mrs Niaomi Patterson alongwith many of our other ladies were invited into thelodge room whereupon R.W.Bro. Frazer wasinvited by the W. Master W.Bro Brian Trainor topresent a 50 year jewel and certificate to W.Bro.Patterson.

We thanked W.Bro. Patterson for his service toFreemasonary over the years being currentlyAlmoner of the Lodge. He hoped that he wouldwear his jewel with pride for many years to come.He made reference to W.Bro. Patterson’s time as asuccessful business man in Lisburn and to hisleisure activities outside Freemasonary, specificallyhis interest in golf having been captain of theLisburn Golf Club.

W.Bro. Patterson replied, thanking R.W.Bro. Frazerfor his kind words and also all the members of theLodge for their friendship and cooperation,particularly the Officers of the Lodge who keep theadministration on an even keel.

The members, our visitors of which there werequite a number, all friends of W.Bro. Patterson andalso the ladies retired from the lodge room to enjoya festive board. We all wish W.Bro. DavidPatterson good health and happiness in the yearsto come.

Hiram Milestone

Sir George Clark Memorial Lodge No. 669 in Freemasons'Hall, Arthur Square has been busy recruiting new membersduring 2008.

The lodge held two Open Nights, the first in May and a secondin October.

Some 70 visitors, men, women and children attended the Mayevent. They were all invited into the lodge room, after the lodgehad closed, but with the brethren still wearing their regalia.

There were also a number of Masonic visitors including theDeputy Provincial Grand Master R.W. Bro. Denis Mitten andV.W. Bro. Desy McCormick PPJGW.

Our visitors were given an interesting talk covering thebackground to Freemasonry and an outline of what wasinvolved in being a mason. They were then taken on a tour ofthe newly refurbished Masonic Hall, conducted by one of thehall trustees W.Bro. Ronnie Wilson.

Some refreshments and entertainment followed and from theresulting noise and laughter it was obvious that all had agood time. Our new contacts have in turn introduced people from their

circle of friends to Freemasonry. The result is that L669 andFreemasonry are becoming known in different sectors ofsociety.

The majority of potential members are in their 30s, marriedwith children, and are just average people who want to getinvolved and find out more about the order.

Lodge 669 intends to work at keeping these people and isintroducing a mentoring scheme in January 2009, where seniorlodge members will work closely with the new members, bothwithin the lodge and on a social front. This gives moreinvolvement for Past Masters of the lodge who don’t just sit onthe backbenches and second proposals. Their experience andinput is too valuable to be squandered and they must not beallowed to drift away from the Order.

This is a win-win situation for the lodge, as more brethren havebeen prepared to introduce candidates and talk openly aboutthe order. If people don’t know you are a mason how can theytalk to you about it. Tell people proudly that you are aFreemason, talk about the Order, tell them about our charitywork and come out into the light where we should be.

Nearly everyone we have talked to has had somemisconceptions about Freemasonry and with your help ourOrder can progress and take it’s rightful place in society.

If anyone is interested in emulating what we have done, wecan be contacted via our website www.lodge669ic.org, throughthe secretary Brian McBride on 028 9145 0372 or the lodgementor Norman Lacey on 07749 703537.

Norman LaceyWM, Sir George Clark Memorial Lodge 669

SIR GEORGE CLARK MEMORIAL LODGE NO. 669

Recruitment, Retentionand Retrieval

A second, “men only” night was held in October with 17interested visitors in attendance. Again they were brought intothe lodge room following the meeting where a detailed talk anddiscussion was held and it was explained what the commitmentto being a mason involved. A festive board followed withvisitors and brethren mixing freely and there was a combinationof questions and answers and much socialising.

Once again R.W. Bro. Millen and V.W. Bro. McCormick werepresent, mingling with the visitors and building bridges with allin attendance.

The visitors included new people interested in joining the order,some people whose attendance or membership had lapsed,and a few lost souls, new to the Province of Antrim, who weremissing their involvement with Freemasonry.

People had got in contact with the lodge through websites aswell as by personal contact. Lodge 669 is now in the happyposition of having 13 additional people on their books and areinvolved in ongoing discussions with several more.

GAZETTE 2009 13


The Fund was founded in 1917, its objective is to advise,encourage, assist and promote the welfare of necessitouschildren and orphans of Freemasons.

In 2007 the committee produced a Newsletter which wasdistributed around various Masonic Halls. We would like tothank all the Branches of the Order for allowing our Committeemembers to address their various festive Boards and atInstallation dinners.

A big thank you to all those who marked their Charity Gift Aidenvelopes on the reverse with M.O.W.C. and we look forwardto your continuing support in the future.

Last year our Fund was able give support to some 43 thirdlevel Students with a grant of £125. (we have been informedthat we will have 55 annuitants, an increase of 26% for 2008).

Within the Fund there is a special provision for studentsstudying medicine and two grants of £500 were awarded.

The Committee is also grateful for the continuing support andparticipation of the Funds joint Presidents the Right WorshipfulProvincial Grand Masters of Down and Antrim.

MasonicOrphanWelfareCommittee

At the March 11th communication of Thomas Valentine MasonicLodge No. 21, two noteworthy events took place.

3RD DEGREEA case of groundhog day? At the same meeting Bro. Neil Rea,received his 3rd degree, with W. Bro. George Holland in theWorshipful Master’s chair. Back in 1987 Neil’s father Davidreceived his 3rd degree. The WM on that occasion was W. Bro.George Holland. Not only that, but the master mason’s apronwhich was presented to W. Bro. Rea in 1987 was in turnpresented to Neil by his father, a proud moment indeed. Neil wasalso obligated by W. Bro. Rea, with the legend recited by W. Bro.Bobby Spiers. The picture below shows W. Bro. Holland, apron inhand, Bro. Neil Rea, W. Bro. David Rea and W. Bro. Spiers.

DOUBLE NIGHT OF CELEBRATION IN LODGE 21

50 YEAR JEWELThis landmark was achieved by W. Bro. William L. Craig, 50years to the day when he first joined Lodge 21. In typicallymodest fashion, Billy preferred the event to be low-key and itwas fitting that his brother W. Bro. Victor Craig was called uponby the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. George Holland PPGS tomake the presentation. At the festive board following themeeting, Billy gave us all an insight into his Masonic career,remembering some of the characters and stories which havegone into Thomas Valentine folklore. The picture above showsW. Bro. Holland along with the Craigs, Billy (centre) and Victor.

The Committee meets on the second Saturday of each month(except June, July and August) and welcomes all applicationsto the Fund, subject to the criteria of the Funds Constitutionand By-Laws.

The committee members would like to pass on our deepestsympathy to the family circle of W.Bro. James Davidsonwho passed to the Grand Lodge above during the summerrecess.

The photograph was taken at the 2008 A.G.M. of the Fund andshows from left to right: R.W.Bro. Millen P.G.D.M. of Antrim,Hon. Treasurer W.Bro. D.Wallace, Chairman and PatronW.Bro. G. Mullan, Hon Secretary R.W.Bro. A. Patterson andR.W.Bro. R. Armstrong P.G.M. of Down

W.Bro. D.Wallace, Hon. Secretary.

Patrick Masonic Lodge No. 493

On Saturday 28th February 2009, The Right WorshipfulProvincial Grand Master invested Wor. Bro. Colin Watt as aProvincial Grand Steward for the year 2009. Wor. Bro. Watt wasWorshipful Master of Patrick Masonic Lodge in 1996 and hasserved as its secretary for the past 8 years. In addition, he is inhis 14th year as Treasurer of Stalwart Masonic Lodge No. 96.

The photograph shows Wor. Bro. Watt (centre) along withWor. Bro. Desmond Armstrong (left) who served as ProvincialGrand Sword Bearer in 2002 and Wor.Bro. Maurice McQuittywho was Provincial Grand Organist from 1990 to 2000.

Crumlin Royal Blue Masonic Lodge No. 140

Above: W.Bro. Dennis Minford, who was installed as WorshipfulMaster of Crumlin Royal Blue Masonic Lodge 140 in CrumlinMasonic Hall, is pictured with R.W. Bro. W. J. Dyer, ProvincialAssistant Grand Master, Provincial Grand Lodge of Antrim,together with Lodge members and guests. Included are W. Bro.James McClurg, Installing Officer and W. Bro. Rodney Mairs,Director of Ceremonies.

Left: W. Bro. Girvan Mairs (seated) accepting the presentation ofa new set of regalia from the members of Crumlin Royal BlueMasonic Lodge 140 to mark his appointment as Provincial GrandLodge Standard Bearer. The presentation, which took place inCrumlin Masonic Hall, was carried out by his brother W. Bro.Rodney Mairs, accompanied by R.W. Bro. W. J. Dyer, ProvincialAssistant Grand Master, Provincial Grand Lodge of Antrim, W.Bro. Dennis Minford, Worshipful Master of Crumlin Royal BlueMasonic Lodge 140 and V.W. Bro. James McClurg.Photographs by Pat McGuigan Photography, Randalstown.

PDGM Dennis Millen with Grand Secretary R.W. Bro. BarryLyons, Grand Lodge Curator Rebecca Havens and R.W. Bro.Robert Bashford PGL Librarian.


This year is an important anniversary for all Burn’s lovers as itrecords the two hundred and fiftieth anniversary of his birth onthe 25th January 1959. Burns became an Entered ApprenticeFreemason on the 4th July 1781, when he joined St David’sLodge Tarbolton. This was the beginning of a lifelong interestand love for Freemasonry, which can still be seen as a keyelement in Burn’s poetry right up to the present day :

If in the vale of humble life,The victim sad of fortune’s strife,

I, thro’ the tender gushing tear,Should recognise my master dear;

If friendless, low, we meet together,Then, sir your hand – My friend and

Brother.

Burn’s was an active Mason,frequent attendee at his Lodge,who filled the office of DeputeMaster for several years, and his

name was frequently appendedto the Minutes at that time.

However there were poorfinancial returns from farming atthe time and Burns gave somethought to working abroad. Hesecured a post as bookkeeper fora Dr Douglas on his estates in

Jamaica, and in the

circumstances took his farewell of the Brethren of St James,Tarbolton in verse, in one of his most famous songs:

Adieu! A heart warm fond adieu!Dear brothers of the mystic tie!Ye favour’d, ye enlightened few,Companions of my social joy.Tho’ I to foreign lands must hie,Pursuing Fortune’s slidd’ry ba,With melting heart and brimful eye,I’ll mind you still though far awa’.

Thankfully, in the autumn of 1786, prior to his planneddeparture, his financial situation improved, as a result of thesuccess of his first publication of poetry, when all six hundredcopies of his work, were swiftly sold out to the people ofAyrshire. So instead of emigrating to Jamaica, he ended upin Edinburgh, where a second edition of his works wasproduced. It was only nine days after his arrival in Edinburgh,that he made his first visit to the Canongate KilwinningLodge, the first of many visits to Lodges meeting in thecapital. It was also at this time that he also went out toRoslin to visit the chapel.

Brethren, there is much more to tell about the life and times ofour Brither Rabbie Burns, and hopefully we will come back tothis story later in the year. For now, I would ask you all to writein and let us know about your favourite piece of Burns workand tell us all, what you find appealing about it.

250th Anniversary of the Birth of Rabbie Burns

Larne Open DayOn 18th December 2008 a delegation from J. Pim ThompsonMasonic Lodge No.349 arrived at the home of Bro. David Kirk inBallynahinch, accompanied by the Provincial Assistant GrandMaster Rt W.Bro. Denis Millen to present him with a jewelcommemorating 60 years in the order along with a 50 and 60year certificates enclosed in a frame. Bro. Kirk is 89 years oldand has been unable to attend the Lodge for many years duemostly to his career in the Merchant Navy. He attained hisdegrees as follows:-

E.A. 19:11:47F.C. 17:12:47M.M. 10:03:48

David is an Honorary Member of the Lodge and is the oldestsurviving member. During our visit he recalled his days attendingthe Lodge and had great discussion with Rt W.Bro. DennisMillen about people who live and lived in the Ballynahich areathat they both knew. David was immensely glad that we came tosee him and promised to keep in touch on a regular basis. Thehouse in Dromore Street that he lives in used to be a Bakersshop owned by his family and he was born and raised there.

The delegation were as follows:-

Rt. W.Bro. Dennis MillenV.W.Bro. Desy McCormick, Director of CeremoniesW. Bro. Stephen McCormick, Worshipful MasterW. Bro. David Henry, SecretaryW. Bro. William Elliott, Almoner.

Top: Rt. W.Bro. Dennis Millen & Bro. David Kirk.

Above (left to right): W. Bro. David Henry, W.Bro. William Elliott,V.W.Bro. Desy McCormick.

Left (left to right): Rt. W.Bro. Dennis Millen, W.Bro. StephenMcCormick, W. Bro. David Henry, W.Bro. William Elliott.

J. PIM THOMPSON MASONIC LODGE NO. 349

Bro. David Kirk Honoured

Remember Brethren, the annual publication of the Gazette is only possible with your help.So please keep sending all essential editorial material/pictures relating to anniversaries,50 year jewel celebrations, etc.

Send all material to Michael Drake, Editor, Quoniamstown 36, Downpatrick.Tel: 028 4461 3174 orEmail: [email protected] you can send material to ProvincialHeadquarters, 15 Rosemary Street, Belfast BT1 1QA.

Michael Drake


Wor Master, Rt Wor Assistant GrandMaster, Rt Wor Provincial Grand Master,Very Wor Brethren, Wor Brethren andBrethren All.

Thank you for the invitation to addressyou all on this, the occasion of your Bi-Centenary celebrations, this year. TwoHundred years is a very long time andyour Brethren have worked long and hardover the years to keep your Lodge alive,active and growing. And in this missionyou are all continuing the hard work ofyour Founders James Boyd, GeorgeHanna and Samuel Skelton, who appliedto Grand Lodge on the 6th April 1809 fora Warrant to hold a Lodge in the townlandof Oldstone on the outskirts of Antrim. Ourcurrent researches suggest that this firstLodge was to meet in a cottagesomewhere out around the Oldstone Hillabout halfway between the current DublinRoad and the Oldstone Road.

And Brethren, you are very fortunate, asanyone wanting to get a goodunderstanding of Life in Antrim in the 19thcentury need only read a copy of “MyLady of the Chimney Corner” byAlexander Irvine. This work is anexcellent scene setter for the early daysof Freemasonry in Oldstone. We knowthat Grand Lodge issued Warrant No 449to James Boyd (Farmer), George Hanna(Weaver) and Samuel Skelton (Weaver)to hold a Lodge in the townland ofOldstone in Antrim. This Warrant wasdated 6th April 1809.

What you may not already know, is thatAntrim and district in 1809 was awashwith Masonic Lodges. The earliestWarrant issued to the town, No 313issued to the Antrim Militia Lodge was stillgoing strong. Warrant 529 the precursorof 28 was the largest Lodge in the townby far and 643 was also active at thetime. Our records show that Bro JamesKeenan was Master, William Berkley andWilliam Morgan were Wardens and theLodge was working the Excellent, SuperExcellent and Royal Arch degrees at thetime. In the surrounding area Lodges satat Massereene (No 918), Duncilly (No805) and Muckamore (No 901).

Antrim was a very different place at thattime. It was just recovering from therigors of the 1798 rebellion whenPresbyterian rebels with pikes andpitchforks attacked a meeting of theCounty magistrates. A bloody battle tookplace and the insurgents lost and fled thescene. One of the Magistrates present atthe battle, Bro the Rev GeorgeMcCartney borrowed £1500-00 in 1812 tobuild a square embattled bell tower on to

the end of All Saints Church of IrelandChurch in Antrim. Four years later in1816 further renovations were completedincluding the removal of the mainentrance door to its current position underthe Tower and the construction of theoctagonal steeple was completed. Thisremains one of the most notable objectsin the skyline over Antrim to this day.

Our local Lodges were still electing theirLodge Master every six months, installinghim on the morning of St John’s Day(June and December) and then paradingoff to Church with their neighbouringLodges. One example of this tradition isrecorded in the Belfast Newsletter for itsedition on the 5th July 1814 when theBrethren of 449 Oldstone joined with adozen other local Lodges and paraded toChurch in Crumlin, before marchinghome, reconvening and closing theLodge and then having a bite and a drinkbefore the members returned to theirindividual homes.

We the Master, Wardens & Brethren ofLodges Nos. 127, 140, 404, 426, 428, 449,490, 499, 513, 551, 643, 800, 805, & 918,of Free and Accepted Masons, held underthe sanction of the Grand Lodge of Ireland,beg leave to return our sincere thanks toour Bro. Rev. Robert Campbell for hisexcellent and appropriate sermon deliveredto us in Crumlin on the 24th June.

Signed by Order,

Richard Davison, Sec. 140, Crumlin,June 25th, 1814

Whilst all this work was going on IrishFreemasonry was also growing anddeveloping. Grand Lodge had taken overthe Female Orphans School in Dublin andin an attempt to raise funds to support thisnew venture, and also to update thewording on the Warrants to give GrandLodge greater control, Grand Lodge beganto offer vacant numbers for sale to alreadyexisting Lodges. This was a very popularmove as the senior Lodge attending anygathering tended to be the Lodge with thelowest number. Consequentially manylocal Lodges changed their Warrants,supporting the new Orphans School in theprocess, and improved their position in thelocal status quo.

To that end the Brethren in Antrimexchanged 529 for 160 on the 2/12/1824and some 8 months later changed againto 28 on the 24/8/1825. This move gaveWarrant 28 precedence in the Antrimarea parades. In Massereene, a similarseries of moves took place changingWarrant No 918 on the 5/2/1818 toWarrant 193 and then again on the

in Antrim. The family moved up to AntrimCastle as the Massereene House wasknown and took the chair and mace withthem. These treasures were in the houseat the time of the great fire in 1922. Themace was eventually sold to The Bank ofIreland in 1933 and the chair has endedup in the Rosemary Street Masonic Hallin Belfast, where it is preserved to thepresent day.

Chichester Skeffington the 4th Earl ofMassereene died in 1816 and in 1821 hiswidow commissioned a fine marble effigyof Chichester Skeffington complete withhis Masonic apron. This effigy can still beseen in the church to this day. Someyears later the Rev George McCartneydied in 1824 and was also buried atAntrim, in the church graveyard.Masonically the Lodges in Antrim wentthrough another hard period and in 1830Duncilly Lodge 805 and MuckamoreLodge 901 both had their Warrantscancelled by Grand Lodge. Again, theyboth appear to have closed up beforeGrand Lodge acted in 1830.

In 1838 the Poor Relief (Ireland) Act wasbrought in, splitting Ireland into a numberof Poor Law Unions, usuallyencompassing an area of 10 square milesaround a major town or city. Each Unionwould build a workhouse which would befinanced from the rates payable by theproperty owners living within theboundaries of each Poor Law Union. EachUnion was managed by a Board ofGuardians. The original aim was to providerelief to the destitute poor, who had to livewithin the Workhouse, to qualify forassistance. What you may not be aware of,is that this system remained in place rightup to 1948, when it was finally replaced inNorthern Ireland with the provisions of thenew Welfare State legislation. So it wasaround this time that the Antrim Workhousewas built and managed by its own Board ofGuardians including a number of prominentAntrim Masons.

A couple of years later in 1840 the 10thViscount Massereene and 3rd ViscountFerrard commissioned Sir CharlesLanyon, a future P.D.G.M. of Belfast andNorth Down to build a new Stable Block inneo-gothic style. This is the building whichis better known today as The ClotworthyArts Centre. Before leaving the 10thViscount, I’m reminded of a famous storytold about his unfortunate demise in 1863,as a result of falling off his horse. He wasthe second member of his family to diethat way, for the 1st Earl had been killedunder mysterious and supernaturalcircumstances in 1757 whilst out “Fowlingin the demense”. It was said that the 10thViscount, an excellent horseman died in asimilar mysterious way.

Permission granted by Grand Lodge, 2September 1830, for the Brethren of 56to remove the Lodge to CONNOR, Co.Antrim, but apparently they did not do so.It was around this time that moves wereafoot to introduce a new Provincial GrandMaster and Lodge into the South Antrimarea. In May 1835 Grand Lodge finallyagreed and issued letters patient toGeorge Augustus, 2nd Marquess ofDonegal to take office as Provincial GrandMaster in a body to be known as TheProvincial Grand Lodge of the Baronies ofBelfast, Antrim and Massereene. On themorning of the Installation on the 25thJanuary 1836, a number of Brethrencalled at Belfast Castle and gave theMarquess his first three degrees so thathe would be suitably qualified to take hismain obligation later in the day at TheExchange Rooms.

It may be of interest tonight to learn that anumber of south Antrim Lodges including28 Antrim, 31 Massereene and 56Oldstone True Blue were not in favour ofthe move to form a new P.G.L. A specialcommittee was set up to review the wholematter and its landmark decision issued inJuly 1836 was to have a major impact onthe whole scheme. The report of theSpecial Committee found: “That no power

is given to the Provincial Grand Master, toenforce the attendance of the Officers ofany lodge which has not consented toacknowledge the jurisdiction of the newProvincial Grand Lodge”. Clearly thingsdid not bode well for the new Province,and matters were exasperated by the factthat the 2nd Marquis was rarely at homein the North to conduct the business ofthe Order. However the position remainedunchanged until the death of the 2ndMarquis in 1844. Some 4 years laterGrand Lodge appointed Bro WalterBishop Mant to the post of P.G.L. andextended his remit to include North Down.This time round all the Lodges in Antrimgave their support and played a full role inthe workings of the Order at that time.

In 1842 Grand Lodge cancelled WarrantNo 643 Antrim, for non payment of Dues.Oldstone was to have its own problemswhen Warrant 56 was Suspended on the5th May 1864., along with 31Massereene and 28 Royal Blue Lodge.The problem appears to have been thatall three Lodges with others marched tochurch in regalia, as organised bodies toparticipate in the burial of a Brother. Theydid not seek approval from P.G.L., whichthey knew would be refused and inconsequence their Warrants weresuspended for a period to teach them alla lesson. In the case of Oldstone theirWarrant was restored in August 1864.

In 1870 the beautiful East Window in AllSaints, Antrim was dedicated. Itcomprised a series of ten scenes fromthe life of Our Lord, and represented thelatest in stained glass technology at thetime. John Skeffington Clotsworthy 11thViscount Massereene and 4th ViscountFerrard was one of the benefactors whocontributed to the costs. He was a verycolourful character with a love for strongdrink, and this weakness gave rise to thecelebrated description of him walkingalong St James’s Street in London –“There goes Lord Massereene andFerrard and they are both drunk”. However

ANTRIM MASONIC LODGE No. 56

Bi-Centenary Celebrations29/8/1825 changing again to Warrant No31. And one possible reason for all thesechanges was the fact that Oldstonechanged their Warrant number from 449to 56 on the 24th June 1817. It has beenrecorded that competition was quite fiercebetween 160 and 193 as follows:-

The desire for a lower number wascreated, and a heated race between thisLodge and Lodge No. 193 took place as towhich would get the premier position. Thedifficulty of communicating with Dublin wasonly possible per stage coach, which didnot run frequently, but Lodge 160 wasfortunate in having their arrangementscompleted sooner than their rivals andsecured the advantage of getting theirposition forwarded by an earlier coach,and thus had No. 28 allocated, whilst No.31 went to Lodge 193.

The Right Honourable Clotworthy JohnEyre Foster Lord Viscount Massereeneprovided a parcel of land (in a section ofAntrim then known as Scotch Corner) onlease for 500 years at an annual rent of£4-8-0 per annum provided that a suitablebuilding be erected, costing not less than£ 400 pounds, quite a substantial sum inthose days. This has been the home ofAntrim Freemasonry ever since.

Sadly other Lodges were not doing quiteso well as these three. Warrant 313, theoldest of the Antrim Lodges, had itsWarrant cancelled by Grand Lodge onthe 1/7/1818 along with some 63 otherWarrants throughout the Constitution.These were all Lodges that had went outof communication with Grand Lodge forvarious reasons. In some cases the officeholders emigrated and in some instanceseven took their Warrants with them toAmerica, Canada, Australia or NewZealand. In other case poor health haddecimated Lodge memberships withoutbreaks of Cholera and other infectiousdiseases taking place from time to time.And in even other cases it may well havebeen due to financial hardship, as theordinary members were facing a dailystruggle to survive.

One interesting snippet of Antrim Historyis that John (Speaker) Foster, BaronOriel, the last Speaker in the Irish Houseof Commons took possession of theSpeakers Chair and the ornate silver IrishSpeakers Mace once the Act of Unionbetween Great Britain and Ireland wasenacted throughout Ireland in 1801. Hisson Thomas Henry Foster married the4th Earl of Massereene’s daughter Harrietand when he died in 1816 without maleissue, she inherited the title ViscountessMassereene and the entire family estates


regardless of his personal foibles he wasthe man in 1895 who created MassereeneGolf Club under the presidency of himselfusing some of his own lands from thenorthern part of the Antrim Castledemense, located just beyond the Six MileWater. Sadly he was to pass to The GrandLodge above in 1905, at the relativelyyoung age of sixty three.

In 1906 a most successful concert onbehalf of Masonic charities was held inthe Protestant Hall, Antrim, on the eveningof the 15th inst., under the auspices ofOldstone Masonic Lodge No. 56. Prior tothe commencement of the concert therewas a procession of the Brethren to theplatform, led by the Knight Templars,wearing their robes of office.

A year later in 1907 a talk entitled"Freemasonry in Antrim” was givenfollowed by a presentation to Br. JamesBoyd. In the Protestant Hall, Antrim, onthe evening of the 19th instant, acompany of over one hundred,representing the various Masonic Lodgesand Chapters in the district, met to dohonour to Br. James Boyd, P.M., P.K.,H.T., P.P.G.S., on the occasion of hisrecovery from a severe illness. For nearlyforty years Br. Boyd has rendered signalservice to the Order, and his popularity isgreat among the Antrim Brethren, whosecompliment took the tangible form of anilluminated address and a pursecontaining a hundred guineas........"

Another notable event organised byOldstone Lodge No. 56 in 1907 was inhonour of a popular local musician. A largenumber of members of the OldstoneMasonic Lodge No. 56, Antrim, took supperin their well-equipped hall on the eveningof the 22nd inst., when opportunity wastaken to pay a well-deserved complimentto Br. Clarles Lindop, A.P., T.C.L., organistof the Antrim Parish Church. Br. Lindop isextremely popular with members of theCraft, in all parts of the Province, andnaturally so, as his services have alwaysbeen willingly placed at the command ofthe various Lodges.

The presentation took the form of a veryhandsome illuminated address suppliedby Messrs W & G. Baird, Ltd, Belfast.The proceedings, which were mostenjoyable, closed with the singing of theNational Anthem.

Nine members served in the 1914-18 Warand eight returned safely to kith & kin.Bro. Jack Caton, a sub Lieut in the RoyalNavel reserve made the supremesacrifice. The others who served andreturned safely home included:-

• William C. Davidson a Serg in the TankCorps.

• Robert J. Fannon a Squadron SergMajor in the RASC.

• William J. Jamieson a Serg Major inthe RASC.

• Charles Lindop Bugle Major in the RIR.

• G. Montgomery M.M. Serg in the R.I.R.• Herbert Rushton Private AOC.• Robert Sprott Lieut RIR• William G. Wadge Private in the

Somerset Light Infantry.

1922 was an awful year fire the town ofAntrim as that was the year that AntrimCastle was burned down by the IRA. Thefamous Oak Room was totally destroyed .Much of historical value was lost but anumber of artefacts and furniture weresalvaged. After the fire Lord Massereenemoved to live in the nearby Dower HouseSkeffington Lodge (better known today asthe Deer Park Hotel).

On the 27th July 1946 the ashes of theauthor Alexander Irvine were received atPogue’s Entry Antrim by the Vicar ofAntrim. His four nephews carried thebronze casket to All Saints Church wherethe memorial address was given by theLord Bishop of Down & Dromore.Alexander’s remains were then placed inthe “Love Is Enough” grave in the Churchgraveyard under the East window.

And just before closing Brethren, I wantto make mention of one further specialevent, that took place in 1996 when WorBro Walter Carson was presented withhis 50 year jewel by Rt Wor Bro AdamMcKinley one of the then ProvincialAssistant Grand Master’s of Antrim.Walter, one of the best known Mason’s inAntrim has given many years service tothe North Antrim Committee of Inspection

and served the Province as Senior GrandDeacon. He played a leading role in theAntrim Hall Refurbishment of the early1990’s and was one of the founders ofThe Antrim Social Club.

Brethren, this is a very short review of thehistory of a very old and distinguishedLodge, which has played an importantrole in the growth of Freemasonry in thegreater Antrim area. From its earlybeginning in a room in a small cottage onthe Oldstone Hill right up to its currentexistence here tonight.What should beclear from tonight’s presentation is thatFreemasonry does not exist in a vacuum,but reflects the social life of the time. In thegood times our Order grows and in the badtimes we contract. Or as the late Rt WorBro Robert Orr would have said, – A part ofSociety rather than apart from Society.

Brethren, I would thank your Secretary forhis invitation to speak tonight, as it gave mean opportunity to look into the history ofFreemasonry in the Antrim area. The dresssuit message seems to have got lost in theether, so I apologise for my civviesapproach. As usual I would thank you all forthe attention that you gave me during thepresentation and hope that you all foundsomething of interest therein. And finally,on behalf of all the guests here present, Iwould extend our warmest birthdaygreetings to the WM, Officers and Membersof Oldstone Lodge No 56 on this theoccasion of their Bi-Centenary celebrations.

Rt Wor Bro Robert Bashford.

The Magill family recently presented an attractivejewel, in memory of their late father, Bro. Jack Magill,to be worn by the Master of St. George Lodge 198.

It was presented by R.W.Bro. Dennis Millen at theLodge Installation in March.

JEWEL PRESENTEDIN MEMORY OFBRO. JACK MAGILL

DO YOU REMEMBER?W.Bro. Winston Blair of Ballyclare recently came intopossession of this old photograph and is anxious to know thenames of the brothers in it. If you can help let us know. Editor.

AS PART of the ongoing celebrations to mark the 250thAnniversary of the issuing of their warrant, members ofBroomhedge Star of the North Masonic Lodge No. 335. attendeda reception in the Lisburn Civic Centre on the evening ofMonday 18th May 2009.

This reception was hosted by the Mayor of Lisburn. CouncillorRonnie Crawford. who welcomed a party of eighteen membersof the Lodge, and proceeded to entertain the party by invitingthem to the Mayors’ parlour, where a most enjoyable eveningensued. Some old friendships were renewed and new onesformed during an evening when the conversation ranged fromfootball to the present economic situation. The Mayor alsoexpressed a keen interest in the programme of celebrationsduring 2009 which the Lodge had arranged to celebrate theissuing of their warrant on the 4th October 1759.

The Lodge members had the opportunity of visiting the Councilchambers and asking questions of the Mayor when answerswere readily given.

An Excellent evening concluded after tea and coffee and somelight refreshments had been served by Councillor Crawford.

ONGOING 250thANIVERSARYCELEBRATIONS

Bro. D. McKnight, W.Bro. M. McCrea, W. Master, The Mayor ofLisburn Councillor Ronnie Crawford, Bro. M. Smiley, S. Wardenand Bro. M. Henderson.

LONG SERVINGMEMBERS HONOURED

BELFAST MASONIC LODGE No. 651

The WM, PAGM, Officers and Brethren of Belfast MasonicLodge 651 with 50 year jewel recipients. Front L to R: W.Bros.David McAneney, Thomas Cummings, William Barr (60 years)and John Sinclair.

On 21st December 2006 St. George’s Masonic Lodge No. 1016returned its Warrant. However the Brethren realised there wasstill some unfinished business to be attended to, namely theupdate of the Roll of Honour and the list of Past Masters.

It was decided, without much debate, that the registers should beupdated and Brethren were only too willing to donate to have therequired insertions and the provision of new frames. After a slightdelay the work was eventually commissioned in early 2009.

Ex Lodge members met on 1st September 2009 in the MasonicCentre Carrickfergus. The Completed registers were presentedto W.Bro. W. R. Whiteside, who not only initiated and organisedthe process but done most of the required research.

St. George’s LodgeNo. 1016 Revisited

Top: Back L-R: W.Bro. R. Gray,W.Bro. P. Graham, W.Bro. B.McQuitty, W.Bro. W. Manderson,W.Bro. D. Hunter, W.Bro. S.Johnson, W.Bro. C. Palmer andW.Bro. E. Lynd. Front: W.Bro. W.Brolly, W.Bro. W. R. Whiteside,W.Bro. H. Brolly.

Right: W.Bro. W. Brolly andW.Bro. H. Brolly.

GAZETTE 2009 23

Brethren, if you are currently Junior or Senior Warden of yourLodge, then I would like to share some thoughts with you, whichmay assist you to prepare for your forthcoming year in Office, asMaster of your Mother Lodge. For many Mason’s this is thepinnacle of their Masonic career, and I would encourage allBrethren to plan their year well in advance. We all have ourdifferent interests, and your year as Master, gives you theopportunity, to make your own individual contribution to theongoing history of your Lodge.

So Brethren, what do we have to consider as we approach thechair. Some years ago, I was involved with the annual IncomingMaster’s meeting chaired under the auspices of The ProvincialGrand Lodge of Antrim. Much to my surprise, many of my pre-conceived ideas about incoming Masters were changed as weheld an intense discussion with a group of prospective Masters,in the comfort of the Provincial Grand Lodge-Room. Some ofthemain points which came out of these discussions were:-

1. Education in most Brethren’s minds equates with competencein the working of the Ritual. Masonic Education, when it isconsidered at all, is usually associated with the ProvincialGrand Lodge of Antrim Education Committee, and theirannual November meeting.

2. The day to day control and working in the Lodge is usually leftin the capable hands of the Lodge Secretary.

3. The average Master does not plan his year in Office anddeals with matters arising in a re-active manner. In the eventof unscheduled items arising, or queries on matters of GrandLodge Law he will normally defer to the guidance of thesenior Lodge Members present.

4. Lodge of Research – Had vaguely heard of this Lodge, butmost were uncertain of its role and function. In some casesBrethren consider it to be an elite body similar to The GrandLodge of Instruction.

5. Provincial Grand Lodge – Must be attended once throughoutthe year to comply with Provincial Grand Lodge bye-laws.HOWEVER I’m glad to report that more Brethren are nowcoming along to Provincial Grand Lodge meetings out ofinterest rather than necessity.

6. Class of Instruction – something to be attended betweenOctober and January in preparation for Office. Regretfullyonce their Installation has taken place, most Brethren tend todrift away.

7. The Grand Lodge of Instruction – The body charged withresponsibility for Ritual matters within The Grand Lodge ofIreland. They have one open meeting per year in The MountMasonic Hall, which is only for ritualists.

And finally

8. The Grand Lodge of Ireland – An elite body for the discussion& debate of management matters which are generallysupposed to not concern the average Mason. It is alsoassumed that these meetings are usually meant for ProvincialGrand Lodge Officers, and other senior Masonic Brethren.

Well Brethren, are your views the same as those that you havejust heard. My first piece of advice to you all, is that whateveryou do, take your time and enjoy your year in the Chair. As yousit here tonight looking forward, it may seem like a long periodof Office. However I can assure you, that once you are in thatChair, time will really fly, and for that reason, you should takeevery opportunity, to think about what you want to do duringyour year.

Now let me give you all a few thoughts that you might like tomull over. What do you want to do to mark your year - Bring insome new Candidates, Hold a social function for the Ladies,Vary the content of the Meeting to include guest speakers.Brethren all of these things are possible, but they require bothForethought and Planning.

By the time you approach the Chair, you should have a goodidea of the make-up of your Lodge, and will know if the Brethrenwill support your ideas. A Coffee morning may not be a big sellerin a rural area, whereas you may get lots of support for aBarbeque or a Ladies Night. Always consider the logistics ofyour Proposal, Who will do What, Is there sufficient support, Willyou take the lead. If your answers are all positive, then approacha few of your Lodge Brethren informally and tell them what youhope to do, get them on board, before presenting yourproposals in Lodge, once you have considered all theimplications.

Brethren, What I am suggesting is in no way Rocket Science,but a well thought out Proposal, with support from a few keyMembers of your Lodge will always do better than a half bakedsuggestion.

I think that at this stage I should say, that I do not expect all ofyou to come up with a range of innovative, revolutionary newideas for the Lodge in your year of Office. I would however hopeto encourage you all to think about what you, as Individuals,hope to achieve from your year. And I will say it again, because Ibelieve that it is very important – Take your Time and EnjoyYourself.

Now lets consider some of the points that we detailed earlier.And where better to start than Masonic Education. Now BrethrenI’m not for one minute suggesting that we all go back to School,but I hope to encourage you to become slightly better informedas to what we do and why. In the Province, of Antrim, we arefortunate in having several excellent Masonic Classes ofInstruction, showing you all HOW to carry out your workingsproperly, in accordance with the rulings of The Grand Lodge ofIreland. Now I would encourage you all to join the Irish Lodge ofMasonic Research No 200 and this will help you to understand alittle about WHY we do some of the things that we do. Forexample…Why do our Lodge-rooms have black and whitecarpets?

“To illustrate in a very visible manner the daily struggle betweengood and evil, Light and Darkness, Heaven and Hell in the life ofthe average brother. We should always remember that when wefollow one, we become lost to the other”.

Why must our Lodge Warrant be on Open Display at the front ofour Lodge-rooms during our Meetings?

“As an obvious sign to all present that they are at labour in aRegularly Constituted Lodge of The Irish Constitution,authorised by The Grand Lodge of Ireland to hold meetings andinitiate Candidates”.

Why does The Master sit in the East?

“Now Brethren, I’m not going to spoil your big Night, this early inthe season.”

However I’m sure most of you get the gist of my explanation. Wein the Irish Lodge of Research do many things. We look backinto our History, as an Order and as a social phenomena. Weconsider the surviving Symbolism and Artefacts of our Order,and occasionally we speculate on The Way Forward. Ourmeetings are open to all Master Masons, and I hope to see youone and all up at one of our next Lodge of Research meetings.

I do not intend to say much more about The Class of Instruction.We all know the pivotal role they play in preparing Masons forthe important Duties of Office. Their contribution can be summedup in one word – “Confidence”. By guiding you all through yourforthcoming duties you become much more accomplished in thetransaction of same and you will

quickly begin to enjoy that satisfaction that comes from knowingthat you have given of your best. A great reward Brethren for thesmall pittance charged, by the Class for your attendance.

I know that most Class Leaders strive to instil a love of Ritual intheir Members, in the fond hope of putting together a team toexemplify in front of The Grand Lodge of Instruction, at one oftheir Open Communications. Indeed there may be some in ourmidst, whose dream as Master is to lead such a team from theirMother Lodge. If so Brethren, you are indeed fortunate in thesupport that is readily available from the membership of thevarious Classes of Instruction throughout the Province.

Now the time has come to be more contentious. One great worryof all incoming Masters is his ability to retain and deliver theCharges to his Officers during his Installation. And here I willdiffer from my esteemed Brethren in the Class. The mostimportant book in the run-up to your year of Office isundoubtedly “The Laws & Constitutions of The Grand Lodge ofIreland”. This is a book that you should all have at home, andhave read through at least once. Now I’m not suggesting thatyou read it like a John Le Carre novel, but I do recommend aprogramme of reading, section by section over a period of time,so that you are generally familiar with the content, and knowhow to find out the regulation on a given topic. In here you willfind written down all of the Charges that you will require, and ifyou feel unable or unwilling to try and recite these charges frommemory, it is perfectly acceptable to read these charges fromyour Laws & Constitutions.

Make sure your copy is the latest version, and make sure thatyou have read over the Charges on a number of previousoccasions, so that on the night, your delivery is Clear, Lucid andeasily understood. And just to be clear, let me explain what yourCharges are. They are a job specification, clearly laying downthe duties and responsibilities of your Officers. For example inthe Senior Wardens charge we are told –

You are by the consent of this LodgeElected Senior Warden thereof for the usual timeIn consequence of which I Invest you with this Collar and JewelAs the Insignia of your Office; Observe the Jewel is a LevelTo denote to you, in its moral sense That in the original state ofMankindAll were meant to be on a Level And morally speaking, May be deemed so still,And in its Masonic SenseThat you are to maintain the original principals of EqualityWithout subverting the distinctions necessary,In the concerns of The Craft. Your early and regular attendanceat your Lodge Is particularly necessary, in order to assistTo the Utmost of your Power and Skill In the Good ManagementThereof.

The point here Brethren, is that it is more important that what issaid is clearly understood, rather than a garbled delivery isgiven. The wording used is concise and easily understood, sothat all present understand the roles and responsibilities of theOfficers concerned. With a little preparation and application fromYou, these can be succinctly delivered.

As Master you will be expected to attend one meeting ofProvincial Grand Lodge during your term of Office. Can I just saythat I hope you will come along oftener, and play your part in thegovernment of our Order. Do all you can to encourage your

Provincial Grand Lodge Representative to attend the ProvincialGrand Lodge Board of General Purposes and give him theopportunity to bring back his reports to Lodge, helping him tokeep all of our Brethren well informed. Now I would also remindyou that your Lodge Representative attends the Board as theRepresentative of your Lodge, so if there is some issueconcerning the Lodge, do not hesitate to ask your rep to raisethe issue at the next Board meeting, after which he report theoutcome straight back to the Lodge.

Occasionally your Representative is asked to vote on mattersimportant to both the Province and The Order. He should beseeking the Lodge’s view prior to casting his vote, as his vote, is,in effect, the Lodge view on these matters.

Then finally Brethren we come to The Grand Lodge of Ireland.The top of our Masonic pyramid. In Ireland we are very fortunatein that we have a very approachable Grand Lodge team, who dotheir utmost to provide a service to the Brethren at large. It ishowever up to you as Master, to play your part in supporting theactions of your Grand Lodge. Now I wonder, how many of youhave ever read, or indeed heard read extracts from the Minutesof The Grand Lodge of Ireland. These have been sent out afterevery Grand Lodge Meeting, to every Lodge Secretary since theearly part of 1995. They should keep both you and your Brethreninformed of the main developments taking place in Grand Lodge,and if you haven’t seen these before, then I would suggest thatyou seek them out in the future.

Most Master’s try to attend one Grand Lodge meeting duringtheir year. In previous years it used to be the John’s Daymeeting in Winter, but from this year, I expect the John’s Daymeeting on the 24th June to become much more popular. OtherMasters contact Grand Lodge and organise a bus tour down toDublin for a guided tour of the premises. Others again opt for theopportunity to hold an Emergency Meeting of their Lodge in theGrand Lodge Room itself, a room seeped in Masonic History. Iwill say at this point that I have been fortunate enough to havesat in the Grand Master’s Throne in Moleworth Street, and it wasone of the truly unique experiences of my Masonic Career. Onlytwo other experiences come close and they were the Master’sChair in Tuckey Street, Cork, and The Excellent King’s Throne inthe Grand Chapter Room in Molesworth Street.

Brethren, What I am trying to say, in my own halting manner, is thatyou can, with foresight and planning do something, that is special,to you, in your Year of Office, and I hope that you enjoy your year,more, as a result of just a little forethought before you begin.

R.T. BASHFORD

Some Thoughts for an Incoming Worshipful Master

As previously mentioned, we hear of many Brethren workingon blogs, books and illustrated content on Freemasonry,which may be of interest to some of you. In particular, Iwould draw attention to the work of two of our Irish Lodge ofResearch members as follows :-

www.irishmasonicjewels.ie an excellent site run by WorBro Dennis McLoughlin. Dennis has produced an excellentand informative site on Irish Masonic jewels with muchinteresting detail that will reward close study.

http://intotheduat.typepad.com/ another interesting site forthose of an esoteric bent featuring articles from Wor BroChris McClintock, one of our most enthusiastic youngresearchers ( He paid me to say that ). Chris has spent someseven years researching our origins and early history and willshortly be publishing his first book, which will be of greatinterest to all.

Interesting Web Pages


OLDSTONE TRUEBLUE MASONICLODGE NO. 56

W. Bro. Winston Gray, WM of Keady Masonic Lodge No. 78, ispictured handing on the ‘Travelling Gavel’ to W. Bro. WilliamThompson, Worshipful Master of Oldstone True Blue MasonicLodge No. 56. The ‘Travelling Gavel’ was designed and craftedby Bro. Rick Howes of Masonic Lodge Wyong 247, New SouthWales, Australia and it was brought to Ireland in 1995 and hasbeen moving from Lodge to Lodge since then. The Antrim Lodgewill be the custodian of the Gavel for the next six months beforepassing it on to the next recipient. Watching the presentation,which took place in Antrim Masonic Hall, are W. Bro. RobertBothwell, W. Bro. Norman Shilliday of Keady Masonic Lodge No.78, W. Bro. Alex Shilliday and W. Bro. Jack Magowan, Lodge No.384, Dundalk, W. Bro. Stephen Pettigrew and W. Bro. WalterCarson of Oldstone True Blue Masonic Lodge No. 56.

W. Bro. William Thompson (left) who was installed as WorshipfulMaster of Oldstone True Blue Masonic Lodge No. 56 in AntrimMasonic Hall accepts the maul from immediate Past Master W.Bro. Paul McKee, while looking on is W. Bro. Stephen Pettigrewwho was the Installing Officer.

Photographs by Pat McGuigan Photography, Randalstown.

As an invited guest at the second Installation of Rathmoy sincethe issue of their warrant, it was my pleasure to witness one ofthe best conferrals of the Worshipful Master Degree during my23 years in the Order. The Installing Master W. Bro. JamesTurner is certainly a credit not only to his Lodge but to Masonryin general.

The photographs show Rathmoy 591 as a Lodge and also thepresentation of a Golden Jubilee Certificate. The members fromleft to right are R.W. Bro. Joe Watson, W. Bro. Rob Ewartreceiving 50 year Jewel and Certificate, the newly installedMaster W. Bro. Thomas Beckett and the outgoing Master W.Bro. David Cambridge.

I would like to pass on my congratulations in particular to W. Bro.Beckett on the way he Installed his Officers and my best wishesto all the members of the Lodge that you may go from strengthto strength.

N. A. Ramsay, P.M.

Rathmoy Lodge No. 591

Wor. Bro. David Burke (third from right, front row) who was reinvested as Worshipful Master of Clotworthy Masonic Lodge No. 593is pictured here with Rt. Wor. Bro. Jack Dunlop, Provincial Assistant Grand Master, Lodge Officers and Brethren after theInstallation in Antrim Masonic Hall.

Wor. Bro. William Telford (centre) a member of RandalstownMasonic Lodge No. 598 along with his brother-in-law Wor.Bro. Bertie Russell 598 (left) and his long time friend Wor.Bro. Sam McFetridge 598 after he was presented with his 50year Jewel on 5th March 2009.

50 Year Jewel Presentationat Randalstown MasonicLodge No. 598

W. Bro. Stephen Pettigrew (right) who was recently invested asProvincial Grand Inspector is pictured receiving his newregalia from W. Bro. Paul McKee (left) Worshipful Master ofOldstone True Blue Masonic Lodge No. 56 in the presence ofW. Bro. Walter Carson. The presentation took place in AntrimMasonic Hall.


Belfast MasonicLodge No. 651 W. Bro. William Barr receiving his 60 year bar to his 50 year

Jewel from the PAGM, Rt. W. Bro. John L. Frazer. Also in thephotograph is the WM W. Bro. Andrew Macpherson.

WM, PAGM, Officers and Brethren ofBelfast Masonic Lodge 651, pictured on18th May 2009 with the 50 year Jewelrecipients (front l to r) W. Bros. DavidMcAneney, Thomas Cummings, WilliamBarr (60 years) and Jon Sinclair.

New WM Installed at Antrim Royal Masonic Lodge No. 28

W. Bro. Graham Brown (centre) who was installed as Worshipful Master of Antrim Royal Masonic Lodge No. 28 in Antrim MasonicHall is pictured with W. Bro. Roy Lamont, who was the Installing Officer, W. Bro. Gregory Esler, Immediate Past Master, W. Bro.Brian Henderson, Secretary and W. Bro. Maurice Henderson, Director of Ceremonies. Phontograph by Pat McGuigan Photograhy.

HARP AND CROWN MASONIC LODGE No. 60

Installation of Officers, 28th March 2009

TEXT / CAPTIONS

For the past four years members of Connor Masonic Lodge No189 have been following Bro Jonny Steede’s achievements inthe local Running world and when correspondence camethrough about the Grand Master’s Festival inviting Lodge’s tocome up with ideas of how to raise money for the Charities, theLodge’s attentions turned to Jonny.

After discussions with Lodge Members and Jonny, along withsome members of the Ballymena Running Club it was thought itwould be a good idea to run from the Children’s Hospice inBelfast to the Laura Lynn Foundation in Dublin and then to top itoff have a rest day and compete in the Dublin Marathon.

To help them achieve this magnificent feat the Worshipful MasterWor Bro David Brown and the Brethren of Lodge No 189 set upa committee to help with organising all aspects of the run and“The Long Run Down” was started.

The run commenced on Wednesday 22nd October 2008 at theNorthern Ireland Children’s Hospice in Belfast and made its wayto the Laura Lynn Foundation in Dublin over the following 4 days.

It was helped by assistance of the Charities, Masons and Non-Masons to organise fundraising events, Mini runs and gathersponsorship for the Grand Masters Festival 2008. As they say inthat well known grocery outlet “Every little helped!”

It was quite an achievement getting the Runners and theirsupport team from Belfast through Lisburn, Portadown,Banbridge, Newry, Drogheda and onto Dublin is quite a task. Butit was all made possible by the willing support of many. And atthe end it was an outstanding success.

CONNOR MASONIC LODGE NO. 189

Remember Brethren, the annual publication of the Gazette is only possible with your help.So please keep sending all essential editorial material/pictures relating to anniversaries,50 year jewel celebrations, etc.

Send all material to Michael Drake, Editor, Quoniamstown 36, Downpatrick.Tel: 028 4461 3174 or Email: [email protected] you can send material to Provincial Headquarters, 15 Rosemary Street, BelfastBT1 1QA.

Our thanks as usual must go to the many lodge members who have helped make thispublication possible. We look forward to your continued support in the months ahead.Michael Drake

Recruitment, Retention NEW MANANTRIM’S...passing of Brethren who had served Provincial Grand...

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Transcript of Recruitment, Retention NEW MANANTRIM’S...passing of Brethren who had served Provincial Grand...